WANGARATTA’S bid to develop a centre of excellence for football has for the first time been incorporated into the rural city’s Council Plan.

The draft document, which sets out key objectives for the council for at least the next four years, was adopted by councillors on Tuesday night.

It follows a review of the plan, which saw minor adjustments to key actions and timeframes to accord with latest status assessment.

Four new actions were also introduced, including the development of an elite facility for football with broad community use at the Wangaratta Showgrounds.

It is hoped the site could host AFL football practice matches and the Ovens and Murray Football League grand final, with a target set for June, 2010.

Other changes to the Council Plan relate to a Road Management Plan, Disability Action Plan and compliance with the Cities for Climate Protection program.