Aberdeen call for fan engagement ahead of new beachfront stadium plans

Aberdeen Football Club have called out for fan engagement ahead of plans to build a new beachfront stadium as part of a “City Centre Masterplan”.

The club has announced it has been working alongside Aberdeen City Council on plans to build a new stadium “at the heart” of a beachfront redevelopment.

Alongside as the stadium, the development would include a community sports complex, ice rink, and leisure centre.

The club revealed that they were approached by the council with the plans following the closure of several shops during the pandemic in 2019, leaving Aberdeen city centre “devastated”.

Aberdeen have now encouraged fans to get in touch with their views on the proposal, ahead of the outline business case in June.

A statement on the club’s website read: “Towards the end of 2019, recognising the urgent need to retain footfall in a city centre devastated by the withdrawal of major retail brands, the Council approached the Club to explore the potential of locating our new stadium at the beach.

“The aim is to place the stadium at the heart of the regeneration of the beachfront on land that was previously unavailable to us.

“As part of the overall City Centre Masterplan, the regeneration of the beachfront will improve the connectivity between the city centre and the boulevard.

“A new stadium as a focal point would be the catalyst for the redevelopment of facilities to deliver a world-class community sports complex, revitalizing the beach area.

“The council’s public consultation on the City Centre Masterplan revealed that the top two priorities for the citizens of Aberdeen were improvements to Union Street and keeping the club in the beach area.

“Aberdeen FC has been working closely with Aberdeen City Council on the designs and outline business case for a new stadium and community sports complex, incorporating an ice rink and leisure centre.

“With stunning views out to sea, the new stadium could be a beacon of sporting excellence, sustainability and community, attracting fans, citizens and visitors alike.

“Through collaboration and economies of scale, a new stadium and sports complex are affordable and deliverable for both the council and the club.

“If you want to see this happen, this is what you need to do: Make your views known to the club. Make sure your councillor knows your views. Make your views heard on social media using the #TeamABERDEEN. Make your views seen in the local press by writing to letters@ajl.co.uk or ee.letters@ajl.co.uk”