A new speedway stadium could be built on vacant factory land in the Black Country following talks between campaigners and council chiefs.

Supporters of the former Cradley Heathens have long campaigned for a new permanent home for the team since its Dudley Wood stadium was developed for housing more than 15 years ago.

The speedway club, in its new guise as Dudley Heathens, is just about to embark on its second season.

Members of campaign group Cradley Raising Aid Saving Heathens have been in talks with both Dudley and Sandwell councils in an attempt to find land for a new stadium.

Group member Bob Edwards says the group met Sandwell cabinet member for leisure, culture and youth, Councillor Ann Shackleton to discuss the issue.

And he said vacant industrial land within Sandwell may be lined up as the site for a new circuit.

“Sandwell Council has said there is the possibility of redundant employment land within the area where there could be a track,” he said.

“Our talks are at an early stage as the council say the land isn’t available yet but that it might be in the future. We feel like the talks are progressing and are positive at the moment but its just a case of waiting to see what might happen. It could be an ideal solution for the club.” Councillor Shackleton said discussions had been held but no firm decision had been made yet.

“We are currently looking at what suitable sites there may be in the borough,” she added.

Around 1,000 speedway fans have packed the terraces in Wolverhampton’s Monmore Green stadium and Perry Barr stadium, in Birmingham, to follow the Heathens at their home meetings.

But supporters say the club needs a permanent base to call its own.

The group has been boosted by the news that silencers used to reduce exhaust noise have been given the thumbs up by planners in Birmingham. Speedway team, the Birmingham Brummies, have used the devices on their bikes this season. Their use was enough to convince planners in the city to allow the sport to continue at the Perry Barr stadium.

Mr Edwards has used the example in discussions with the two authorities to create leverage to move the plans forward.

He hopes the silencers will reduce the chance of opposition from residents near sites considered for the new stadium.

“We have really enjoyed having our meetings in Perry Barr and Wolverhampton but I’m sure for most of our fans, having to travel has not been an ideal set of circumstances,” said Mr Edwards.

“It has been a great season and it is a crucial time now to try and focus on the stadium.”