Sunderland AFC oppose plans to build homes near Stadium of Light

Chairman Kyril Louis-Dreyfus said the club will make formal objections to Sunderland City Council’s plans to allow for homes to be built in what had been a buffer zone around the stadium.

Mr Louis-Dreyfus said the plans could have “catastrophic operational consequences on our club and, by extension, our community”, and said the club would file a “formal objection” later this week.

In a statement, Mr Louis-Dreyfus said: “As the custodian of Sunderland AFC, it is my duty to safeguard the future of our club.

“This includes the Stadium of Light – the beating heart of our city.

Sunderland chairman Kyril Louis-Dreyfus (Image: PA) “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.”

The chairman added he encourages all people to come together and “join us in protecting the future of our football club and the City of Sunderland”.

In response to the objections, Sunderland City Council chief executive, Patrick Melia, said: “We are very much invested in the future of the Stadium of Light and recognise it as a key asset for the city.

“It is our view that the proposals set out for the Sheepfolds neighbourhoods will improve operations and fan experience in terms of match days and other events and we remain committed to working with SAFC in relation to their plans for the expansion of the Stadium of Light – we have held many discussions with Mr Louis-Dreyfus and his team to this effect.”

Stadium of Light (Image: STUART BOULTON) Mr Melia added that a consultation process provides an opportunity for the public and stakeholders of Sunderland AFC to share their thoughts with the council.

He said the council will consider “all views and comments prior to determination of the application”.

The statement comes a day after former chairman, Sir Bob Murray, slammed the city council over its plans.

Sir Bob, who oversaw the club’s move from Roker Park to the Stadium of Light, said the plans put future development of the stadium at risk.

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He said the potential consequences of the plan go beyond football. He said the plan could restrict the Stadium of Light’s ability to host concerts and community events.

Sir Bob added: “This isn’t just about football. It’s about Sunderland’s identity, investment and ambition.

“If this plan goes ahead, we risk repeating the same short-sighted mistakes that once doomed Roker Park — and the city will regret it for decades.”