Kyril Louis-Dreyfus to lodge formal objection over Sheepfolds proposal

Sunderland chairman Kyril Louis-Dreyfus has warned that proposed changes to the Sheepfolds development could have "catastrophic operational consequences" for the club and the Stadium of Light.

- by James Copley

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.