Public gives backing to £21m sports centre plan at city park

PLANS to build a £21 million regional sports centre in Dundee have been backed by the people of the city, according to an Evening Telegraph poll.

Dundee City Council is proposing the new facility on grassland in Caird Park, with a planning application due to be considered soon.

The plans have attracted some resistance in recent weeks, after a petition — which has gathered more than 1,000 signatures — was launched opposing the new facility.

Meanwhile, a public meeting is planned for Thursday to give people the chance to air their views and listen to the different stances being taken on the proposal.

It comes just days after Caird Park Golf Club members voted to oppose the centre, which will include a host of resources for a variety of sports.

An online poll run by the Tele with 1,180 responses showed that locals are overwhelmingly in favour of the new centre, with around 86% saying they want to see the facility built, and just 14% against it.

We also took to the city’s streets to see what the feeling was among the general public on the plans and the location. Work on the infrastructure Main picture and above, 3D images of what the new facility could look like. Right, part of a new bridge that’s being built to improve access at the park. needed for the centre has already begun.

William Fox, 61, a labourer from Hilltown, said: “The sports centre would be good for the area.

“I lived in Fintry for years and it would be a great thing for the people in that part of the city.”

Norrie McDicken, 56, a hairdresser from the West End, said: “I can understand why people are opposed to the plans because of the environmental impact on the area.

“But the location is pretty central and would be easy to get to.”

Emma Donaldson, 38, an accountant from the West End, said: “I understand t here are other areas i n t he city where they could build the centre, but I feel it would be much more convenient for the vast majority of people.”

Debbie Clark, 39, a student from Coldside, said: “Having something in that area would definitely benefit those living in the likes of Whitfield and Fintry.

“But the park was gifted to the people of Dundee, so it would be interesting to know if the council can actually build on it.”

Elizabeth Doran, 57, a retired administrator from Maryfield, said: “I am in favour of the centre but as long as it is for the whole of Dundee.

“It shouldn’t be for a select few to use. The centre should be