Salford stadium takes step forward

Wednesday 10th March 2010

Salford have made a pledge to move into their new stadium by the end of 2011 after the much-delayed project took a significant step forward.

Salford City Council's cabinet approved plans to form a joint-venture company with Peel Holdings to deliver a 15,000-seat community stadium as part of a £26million project to transform a 70-acre site at Barton, just off the M60 near the Trafford Centre shopping complex.

Outline planning permission has already been granted for a stadium and retail use and detailed plans are expected to be submitted by the end of May.

Salford chief executive David Tarry said: "This decision is a major boost not just for the club, but also for the City of Salford and Super League who are both totally committed to a desire for a strong, competitive franchise in our region.

"This announcement removes any lingering doubts surrounding the project and confirms that Salford City Reds will be competing in a brand new stadium by the end of next year - a timeframe which will fit in perfectly with our bid for a Super League licence for 2012-2015."

Salford are one of five existing Super League clubs warned they face losing their licence if they fail to deliver on promises made in 2008 to improve facilities.

A decision on the next set of three-year licences is due to be made next summer.

Work on the stadium is expected to start in October and the club say they have been given a delivery date of December 2011.

Tarry added: "This marks the end of a 12-year journey and the start of a bright new future for the Reds.

"The actual work starts here on the most important development in the club's history and we look forward, together with our partners, to delivering a vibrant and successful new era for sport in the city."