Sunderland City Council chief Patrick Melia insists the Sheepfolds plan will not impact the Stadium of Light after warnings from Kyril Louis-Dreyfus and Sir Bob Murray
The comments come after Black Cats owner Kyril Louis-Dreyfus and former chairman Sir Bob Murray warned that elements of the project could have “catastrophic” consequences for the club and the city. Louis-Dreyfus has confirmed that Sunderland AFC will lodge a formal objection to the current plans later this week, urging supporters and stakeholders to join him in protecting the club’s future.
In his statement, Melia said the council had been in dialogue with Murray for months and understood the concerns being raised. “We have held extensive discussions with Sir Bob Murray in relation to this development, and we have acknowledged his comments made over recent months.
“Robust assurances have been given that the proposed Sheepfolds development, as set out here, will not impact any planned future expansion of the Stadium of Light or its ability to host matches, concerts or other events. The current planning application for Sheepfolds is subject to a rigorous statutory planning process, including extensive public and stakeholder consultation, as would be any application for expansion of the stadium.
“The council has sought specialist support and expertise in developing the proposals that are currently out for consultation. This is because we very much recognise the importance of the Stadium of Light as an asset for the city, residents and all visitors.
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“Our recognition, commitment and support for the stadium is all further evidenced by recent investments the City Council has been making with digital connectivity to improve the fan experience and investments in car parking facilities to help logistics for matches and major events. A key, if not central support, for this council and the city’s commitment to the stadium is, of course, the Keel Crossing bridge and this new connection to the city centre.”
The Sheepfolds regeneration forms part of the Riverside Sunderland Masterplan and includes plans for a residential-led, mixed-use community next to the Stadium of Light. The scheme would deliver new homes, leisure opportunities and commercial space, with the Vistry Group appointed as the preferred developer.
While the council says it wants the neighbourhood to “co-exist” with Sunderland AFC, Louis-Dreyfus and Murray have argued that the current layout could restrict matchday operations, impact supporter access and hinder the stadium’s long-term development. Public consultation on the plans is ongoing, with the Local Planning Authority to consider all views before making a final decision.
What has Kyril Dreyfus said about the Sheepfolds plan?
Sunderland chairman Louis-Dreyfus has warned that proposed changes to the Sheepfolds development could have “catastrophic operational consequences” for the club and the Stadium of Light.
The Black Cats’ majority shareholder issued a strong statement ahead of the Council’s next steps on the project, confirming the club will lodge a formal objection later this week. “As the custodian of Sunderland AFC, it is my duty to safeguard the future of our club,” Louis-Dreyfus told The Echo.
“This includes the Stadium of Light – the beating heart of our city. Unfortunately, Sunderland City Council has recently taken steps relating to the Sheepfolds development that could have catastrophic operational consequences on our club and, by extension, our community.
“We are under no illusion that the city needs a more appropriate housing provision and support those endeavours fully. However, later this week, we will be submitting a formal objection against the proposals relating to the Sheepfolds.”
Louis-Dreyfus continued: “And I encourage all city stakeholders to come together and join us in protecting the future of our Football Club and the City of Sunderland. Together, we have limitless potential, but it will only be realised through delivering on a shared purpose and vision.”
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