Aberdeen lifted by stadium verdict

29 April 2009 10:35
The committee voted 13-4 in favour of the report from the Arena Project Team, which was set up jointly by the club and the council. The matter has now been referred to full council for a final decision next month. Aberdeen announced Loirston Loch as their preferred site earlier this month after experts conducted a year-long series of feasibility studies to compare its merits with those of the King's Links near Aberdeen beach. Dons managing director Duncan Fraser told the club's official website: "We have long said that AFC needs to find a new home because Pittodrie is an outdated stadium and redevelopment isn't viable. "Consultants were appointed to look at each of the sites and their decision is that Loirston is the only deliverable option. "In the past, we have looked at other locations and there are no other options for a stadium in the city. "We appreciate that many fans feel that the beach is the spiritual home of Aberdeen Football Club but this report clearly sets out why the King's Links is not viable. "We are very grateful for all the work done by the consultants and we appreciate the time that has been taken by members of the policy and strategy committee to discuss this report, which is so important in the bid for a new stadium for Aberdeen." Committee chair councillor Kate Dean said: "There has been a lot of debate about a new stadium for Aberdeen and many people have their own strongly held opinions on where this facility should be. "Right from the outset we believed that it was essential to closely examine each of the locations, assessing the benefits and challenges of each so we would be able to make an informed decision about which is the most deliverable. "The consultants have assessed that Loirston is, beyond doubt, the best location and this report details how they have come to this decision. "This document has been available to the public as we believe that it is vital to be transparent as possible and ensure that communities are able to see the contents of this important report." Meanwhile, Dons defender Lee Mair has vowed to give 100% for the club, despite their refusal to offer him a new contract until the end of the season. The 28-year-old is a free agent in the summer, along with club captain Scott Severin and Jamie Smith, but Aberdeen have put contract talks on hold until they know their final league position because of the effect it will have on their finances. Mair, who has been linked with St Mirren, said: "Nothing has changed as far as I am concerned, I will still go out there and give 100% in every game. "I have a few options but I will consider them at the end of the season. "At the moment all I am thinking about is doing the job I am asked to do."

Source: Team_Talk