Alternative NI stadium proposals put forward
The British government was today forced into extra time over plans to build the North’s new sports stadium on the site of the former Maze Prison.
A sport consortium and Belfast Chamber of Commerce have alternative proposals to locate the stadium in the city, either at Ormeau Park or Maysfield.
Updated plans for a 42,500 all-seater stadium to be built on the Maze site, outside Belfast, were sent to the three sports ruling bodies in September.
But until now no viable alternative has been put forward.
It is hoped the new stadium will lead to the province hosting three football matches as part of the 2012 Olympics in London.
Durnien.com is behind plans for a City of Belfast Stadium at Ormeau Park and has enlisted the expertise of several companies, including one which worked on Old Trafford in Manchester and Hampden in Glasgow.
The company’s managing director, Paul Durnien, said: “It is a national facility with local access for all.
“New pedestrian routes will be opened up to give all communities direct access to the stadium and its many facilities.
“The easy access to city hotels for visiting teams, supporters and travelling teams, along with the numerous bars, restaurants and retail outlets within easy walking distance from the stadium, will bring large-scale economic activity in the city centre and routes to and from the stadium.”
On the strength of the plans, he said: “The majority of Premier and Championship stadiums are located within an urban environment. It makes social and economic sense and has proven time and time again to be a catalyst for urban regeneration.
“This proposal can help deliver the Olympic ‘once in a lifetime’ dream to our young people and to Northern Ireland.
“It will address the poor training facilities, showcase sport as a recognisable industry and, most importantly, be open and ready ‘in time’ to allow coaches to identify and nurture Northern Ireland’s talent for 2012.”
