The FA Board unanimously approved the concept of a National Football Centre at a meeting on 20 December 2007.

The Board agreed that its preferred option is to explore how best it could be built and financed at the site at Byrkley Lodge near Burton-upon-Trent, linked to a hotel and conference facility. Approval was granted subject to a detailed exploration of the business and funding plans.

FA Chief Executive Brian Barwick said: "I’m delighted that the Board has given the green light for a National Football Centre.

“This is a major step forward for the project. There was general agreement within the Board that a National Football Centre would be a major asset in the development of players, coaches and referees in this country.”

The Board also agreed with The FA’s plans to house the medical and exercise science, coaching, video analysis and education departments at the facility, as well using it as a training and preparation base for England teams.

Sir Trevor Brooking said: “Everyone involved in The FA’s coaching and player development structures believes that a National Football Centre is vital to the long-term health of English football. We were hugely encouraged by the extremely positive reception from both the professional and grassroots game.”