LATEST ON SOL EXTENSION

Sunderland AFC's objection to developing within the buffer area of Sheepfolds contains images of a possible new Roker End.

The club objected to the development, as seen via GOV.UK on August 13th, sharing concept images of the expansion. This would bring the capacity of the ground up to 63,000 from its current maximum of 48,707.

SAFC announced that they sold their full allocation of season tickets for the Black Cats' return to the Premier League and the campaign opener against West Ham was a sellout. If the team continue to do well then demand for tickets will only increase. However, some fans have described an expansion as a risky move because a potential relegation this year would see attendances fall dramatically once again.

After Bob Murray vocally objected to the plans, Kyril Louis-Dreyfus recently released a statement of his own: “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. 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."