LATEST ON PLANNING OBJECTION

Sunderland's full planning objection regarding the latest Sheepfolds development was published at the end of last week - all 257 pages of it. If that's something that interests you, it can be viewed HERE.

In former chairman Bob Murray's initial statement regarding the developement, he said: “This is not just poor planning – it’s a disgrace. You don’t strangle your greatest asset and call it progress. I helped shape those protections, the Council agreed them. And now they’ve torn them up.”

He added: “I’m aware the club will be formally objecting and I fully support their position. The Council’s plans are shameful, short-sighted and completely unacceptable. There’s been no real consultation, no transparency and no accountability. The Council is trying to rewrite its own rules behind closed doors — and in doing so, it risks sabotaging a major driver of jobs, pride and regeneration forever.”

Murray concluded: “This isn’t just about football. It’s about Sunderland’s identity, investment and ambition. If this plan goes ahead, we risk repeating the same short-sighted mistakes that once doomed Roker Park, and the city will regret it for decades. Every fan, and every resident who cares about our city, should be outraged. We must come together to stop this before it’s too late. This is Sunderland’s future we’re talking about. Don’t let them block it. Make your voice heard.”

Following Murray's initial statement, Sunderland AFC chairman Kyril Louis-Dreyfus outlined the club's stance: "As the custodian of Sunderland AFC, it is my duty to safeguard the future of our club. 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."

KLD continued: "We are under no illusion that the city needs more appropriate housing provision and support those endeavours fully. However, later this week we will be submitting a formal objection against the proposals relating to the Sheepfolds and I encourage all city stakeholders to come together and join us in protecting the future of our football club and the city of Sunderland."

Sunderland City Council chief executive Patrick Melia continued to insist that the proposed development would not threated the Stadium of Light or prevent any potential future plans for expansion: “As we have made clear through our statement yesterday and our actions and investments over recent years, we are very much invested in the future of the Stadium of Light and recognise it as a key asset for the city. It is our view that the proposals set out for the Sheepfolds neighbourhoods will improve operations and fan experience in terms of matchdays and other events, and we remain committed to working with SAFC about their plans for the expansion of the Stadium of Light – we have held many discussions with Mr Louis-Dreyfus and his team to this effect. This consultation process provides a real opportunity for the public and stakeholders to share their thoughts with us as the Local Planning Authority, and we will consider all views and comments prior to the determination of the application.”