Bolton Wanderers are actively pursuing an upgrade to their academy status, aiming to transition from category three to category two. This change is significant as it will reintroduce age group football outside the first team and expand the academy's geographical reach. The club has already met most of the necessary criteria, including the quality and quantity of coaching hours provided to players. However, the official approval from the Premier League may not arrive until next summer, which means the club will continue utilizing the B Team model in the Central League for now. The upgrade will also facilitate a more structured and competitive fixture list against similarly ranked academies.

In addition to the academy upgrade, Bolton Wanderers are looking forward to the return of an indoor training facility at Lostock. This facility, known as 'The Bubble,' has been out of commission since it was damaged by Storm Malik in January 2022. The club's management, including Steven Schumacher, has expressed enthusiasm about having this facility available, especially during harsh winter conditions. Schumacher emphasized the importance of having an indoor base for training, particularly for set pieces and tactical work.

Wanderers have outlined a checklist of improvements needed around their training ground and stadium as they prepare for a potential step up to Championship level. Schumacher noted that while there have been general improvements at Lostock, there are still areas that require enhancement. The club is committed to investing in these facilities to ensure they meet the standards expected at a higher level of football. The return of 'The Bubble' is just one aspect of the broader vision for the club's development, with ongoing efforts to improve training conditions for both the academy and first team players.