Edinburgh Monarchs have received a major boost from the Planning Committee of West Lothian Council. The planning application to continue to use Armadale Stadium for speedway racing was approved for three years. The planning officials had recommended a further two years.

When Monarchs originally applied to use Armadale in 1996, the Councillors threw out their application after being recommended by the officials. The political work carried out by the Monarchs promotion and the success that Monarchs have had in attracting local supporters has all contributed to the turnaround.

The only change is that the start/finish line will be moved to what was the back straight. This was to move it slightly further away from the local houses. This will make the raised terracing on the former 3rd/4th bend even more popular as it will afford a great view of the riders going into the first bend.

With the medium term future of Armadale now assured, it is likely that there will be some improvements to the facilities at the stadium with permanent buildings replacing portacabins.