The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
‘Dons’ big move boost for entire north-east’
Development: Groups come out in support of club’s new stadium vision
Business groups have heralded the potential economic impact of the Dons’ Kingsford plans as the deadline marking the end of public consultation looms.
Opportunity North East and the Aberdeen and Grampian Chamber of Commerce said the facilities would be an asset to the region.
Business groups have heralded the potential economic impact of the Dons’ Kingsford plans as the deadline marking the end of public consultation looms.
If built, the new stadium, close to the Aberdeen bypass, would have a training facility in place for the first team to start using in 2018.
The 20,000-capacity stadium – which has taken inspiration from Bristol City’s Ashton Gate stadium for its design – is expected to be completed by the start of the 2020/21 season.
Thousands of people have already written to the local authority in support of the project, which will go before Aberdeen City Council on May 10.
But those who have not yet had their say only have until the end of today to voice their opinions.
Last night business group Opportunity North East (ONE) said members believe the new facilities would be an asset to the region.
A spokesman said: “ONE supports the ambitious vision of the club and trust.
“A thriving and successful football club, which can achieve its goals on and off the pitch and plays an active role across our communities, is a significant asset to the region, in socioeconomic terms and in promoting a sense of wellbeing and pride.
“The proposed training, community and stadium facilities represent a circa £50million private sector investment in the region at a time when our economy is challenged.
“Securing a new home for the club and trust will produce a range of positive sporting, social and economic impacts.
“It is therefore essential that the relevant parties work in a coordinated fashion to achieve this.”
The Aberdeen and Grampian Chamber of Commerce (AGCC) recently revealed that if the move goes ahead the Dons’ impact on the economy would increase by 66% to £20million. The Aberdeen City and Shire Hotels Association (ACSHA) is also in favour of the idea.
Aberdeen FC vice-chairman George Yule said: “There is widespread support for our proposals, ranging from private individuals through to major organisations representing the business and sports communities.
“Any project of this scale will also attract some form of opposition and we recognise that.
“However, the valid issues raised are not insurmountable and can be addressed via the planning process to enable this essential project to proceed at a time of significant economic challenge for our region – sending a very positive message to the wider world that we are open for business and work together to make positive change happen.”
The Dons’ move to Kingsford has been met with some opposition.
The No Kingsford Stadium group has been fighting the proposal and has submitted an official objection. Members are unhappy that the proposal is to be built on the only remaining piece of greenbelt land between Westhill and Kingswells and also believe that moving the Dons away from the centre of Aberdeen will have a negative impact on the city centre.
“Investment in the region at a time when our economy is challenged”
If ever there was a city looking for a renewed sense of optimism, diversification and the means to attract new talent and business then it is Aberdeen.
Wrapped in the security blanket of a burgeoning oil and gas industry, the north-east spent decades living off its good fortune and ignoring chances to flex its muscle into new economic spheres that could have taken our local economy to a whole new level.
We have blocked development and fought voraciously, exhaustingly against progress for fear of what we may lose from our past.
But we can’t keep fighting the future and must move with the times, not for the benefit of us but generations to come. Now is the time to be visionary and continue the momentum to reshape our economy for that future.
A successful football club is good not only for the community but in helping attract new residents — and hold onto current ones — who see its infrastructure and sporting, cultural and other assets are worth sticking around for.
The Dons need new facilities and need to be competing with the best. Twice before plans were mooted — only to be rejected at the final hurdle. On balance, this latest plan can’t fail. Yes, issues need addressed locally; no plan of this scale and significance will please everyone. But at the heart of the Kingsford plan, is something that could help with a new outlook for the north-east. The stadium plans represent a new chapter for Aberdeen Football Club and coupled with other progress re-emphasise a brighter era for the city itself.
“Could the benefits of the move herald the start of a new era for the city itself?”