FIROZ Kassam has revived plans to build a fourth stand at the Kassam Stadium as Oxford United edges closer to promotion.

The businessman and former club owner has revealed he is in fresh discussions about the multi-million pound work, which would also involve building housing at the site, new car parking and possibly conference facilities.

It comes as United prepare for the Johnstone's Paint Trophy final against Barnsley at Wembley on April 3, with the club also in the running for promotion from Sky Bet League Two.

Speaking to the Oxford Mail, Mr Kassam said: "I would like a stadium with my name on it that is finished and not just half-built.

"The discussions are ongoing about getting housing on the site and if we can get that off the ground then it would include funding for a fourth stand.

"The way the club is doing at the moment, which is great, means it may need more room at the stadium, so we will do what is right for the club."

He said that now a £12m Hampton by Hilton hotel – managed by his company – had been finished at Grenoble Road, he would turn his attentions to the fourth stand scheme and the derelict Priory pub.

Mr Kassam added: "I am hoping we can make some progress on this over the next few months.

"We also need to sort out the Priory pub and the last part of the jigsaw is car parking."

His comments came as United considers whether it will lodge plans with Oxford City Council for a temporary stand at the site.

Council officers are advising the club about the proposal, which would not have the same effect on parking as a permanent stand.

Mr Kassam said a temporary stand was cheaper but "not ideal".

City council leader Bob Price said he wanted to work with the businessman to bring forward the housing plans, which he said should also include council land to the north of the stadium and land currently occupied by Northfield School.

A new road from Knights Road to the stadium could also link the site to Blackbird Leys directly for the first time, he added.

Mr Price said: "We are in discussions with the club at the moment about a temporary stand, in anticipation of any potential promotion, but there have also been discussions about a fourth stand.

"We would clearly love to see that, because it is a no-brainer from everyone's point of view."

Oxford United chairman Darryl Eales said the club was "exploring the feasibility" of a temporary stand, but added: "The reality is that any decision about a permanent fourth stand would be wrapped up in wider questions about where we are going, in terms of ownership of the grounds and whether we remain at the Kassam.

"From a pragmatic perspective, there would also not be much point in having a fourth stand if we cannot fill the existing ground.

"At the moment I am more concerned with next season, but my preference would be to remain at the Kassam.

"A big part of my agenda is community and education, so I would love the club to make the most of the Kassam and be more of a focal point for local people."

The Kassam Stadium has been used by Oxford United since 2001, after the club moved from the Manor Ground in Headington.

It was initially built with just three main stands to keep costs down but still ended up costing more than £15m.

Lifelong fan Terry Gordon said a fourth stand was essential if the club was to return to the glory days of the 1980s.

The 70-year-old, who saw United lift the Milk Cup in 1986 and battle it out in the top flight until they were relegated in 1988, said: "It’s a shame to see that end of the ground open and there have been games this season where we have filled the stadium, the fan base is there.

"If we go up the leagues the attendances will grow and we will need a proper stadium."