Progress on 5.1k ground

The local authority confirmed on Friday that it was a step closer to realising the redevelopment of the stadium as a recommendation was agreed to move to the next stage in the process.

The agreement came as part of a special Development Committee meeting which took place this afternoon at Council offices.

The project which has been agreed will amount to a £10.3million in capital and include plans for the development of a 5,100 seated stadium meeting UEFA category II requirements and the restored grass playing pitches, speedwork track and training facilities at Daisyfield and the Brandywell showgrounds.

Chair of Development, Cllr Martin Reilly, said: “I welcome the decision made here today am delighted that Council has preferred this option for the redevelopment of Brandywell which received cross party support at todays meeting. This is also a significant step in that this will be the first key project in delivering the Foyle Valley Gateway Masterplan.

“The next step for this catalyst project”, continued Cllr Reilly “is to submit a full and formal business case to Minister of Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure to secure a contribution towards the capital costs of the project. Council will continue to manage the expectation of achieving a new stadium by the end 2014.”