Former SAFC chairman hits out at housing plan

FORMER Sunderland AFC chairman Sir Bob Murray has accused council leaders of "strangling its greatest asset" amid housing development plans he claims could block future expansion of the Stadium of Light.

- COREENA FORD

Plans have been submitted to demolish 38 industrial units in the shadow of the Sunderland football ground to make way for up to 600 homes, as part of the latest phase of the major Sheepfolds and Riverside Sunderland developments. The council recently appointed Vistry Group as preferred developer for the Sheepfolds neighbourhood

However, Sir Bob Murray, who spearheaded the Stadium of Light's creation, says the plans risk permanently 'landlocking' the football ground, and is urging supporters, residents and local businesses to submit their own objections to the Sheepfolds housing scheme. He said that allowing housing to be built close to the stadium wiped out a protective zone which he says was included in the council's own planning blueprint a few years ago.