Former Sunderland AFC chairman Sir Bob Murray has accused council leaders of “strangling its greatest asset” amid housing development plans he claims could block future expansion of the Stadium of Light. Plans have been submitted to demolish 38 industrial units in the shadow of the football ground to make way for up to 600 homes, , as part of the latest phase of the major Sheepfolds and Riverside developments.
The council recently appointed Vistry Group as preferred developer for the Sheepfolds neighbourhood. However, Sir Bob Murray, who spearheaded the Stadium of Light’s creation, says the plans risk permanently ‘landlocking’ the .
He is now urging supporters, residents and local businesses to submit their own objections to the Sheepfolds housing scheme. He said that allowing housing to be built close to the stadium wiped out a protective zone which he says was included in the council’s own planning blueprint a few years ago, as part of the sweeping .
The masterplan, known as the Riverside Sunderland SPD, recognised the Stadium of Light as a vital part of the city and said that nearby development must not interfere with stadium operations or future expansion. Sir Bob stresses that no one is against the development of Sheepfolds or new housing in the , and said it is a fantastic addition for the city along with the new pedestrian bridge.
The issue, he says, is the removal of the agreed buffer zone in the council’s latest plans. 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. The council’s plans are shameful, short-sighted and completely unacceptable.”
Sir Bob said the housing scheme could restrict the stadium’s ability to host concerts, community events and Premier League matchdays.
He said: “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.”
Sunderland City Council chief executive, Patrick Melia, however, refuted claims the development will block any future Stadium of Light expansion.
Mr Melia said: “We have held extensive discussions with Sir Bob Murray in relation to this development and we have acknowledged his comments made over recent months. Robust assurances have been given that the proposed Sheepfolds development as set out here will not impact on any planned future expansion of the Stadium of Light or in its ability to host matches, concerts or other events.
“The current planning application for Sheepfolds is subject to a rigorous statutory planning process including extensive public and stakeholder consultation as would be any application for expansion of the stadium. The council has sought specialist support and expertise in developing the proposals that are currently out for consultation. This is because we very much recognise the importance of the Stadium of Light as an asset for the city, residents and all visitors.
“Our recognition, commitment and support for the stadium is all further evidenced by recent investments the city council has been making with digital connectivity to improve the fan experience and investments in car parking facilities to help logistics for matches and major events. A key, if not central support, for this council and the city’s commitment to the stadium is, of course, the Keel Crossing bridge and this new connection to the city centre.”
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