THE opening of Morecambe Football Club's new Globe Arena has been delayed.

Brian Fagan, who is overseeing the construction process for the club, explained the main contractor has advised that the planned opening date of July 24 will not be achieved. 

This means pre-season friendlies against Bolton Wanderers, Preston North End and Manchester City have had to be cancelled, while the planned opening weekend of July 24-25 is also postponed, with details of alternative dates to be announced in due course.

Mr Fagan was keen to point out that the whole project team has made every effort to achieve the July 24 opening.

He said: “This project represents the biggest leisure and hospitality construction programme seen in Morecambe for a generation and it has understandably been a significant challenge to all involved."

It is believed the Globe Arena will be ready for the start of the new season though, with the revised handover date now Friday, August 6.

The first game to be played at the Globe Arena will be the Carling Cup match against Coventry City on Tuesday, August 10, followed by the first league game against Rotherham United on Saturday, August 14.

Mr Fagan added: “Our apologies go to everyone who has been planning for the friendly games and we know that there will be huge disappointment that we cannot now stage them. 

"It is important that everything is right when we do open for business and I’m sure everyone will understand and recognise that the development is a magnificent achievement for the club.

"The Globe Arena will deliver a great experience to all.”