A NEW stadium for Salford City Reds rugby league club is likely to be approved by councillors tomorrow.

But Environment Secretary John Prescott will have to give final approval to the £130m development. He will also decide if there should be a public inquiry.

Town hall officers have recommended approval. The proposed 80-acre site is a former flood plain of the River Irwell between the M60, Manchester Ship Canal, and the A57 Liverpool Road at Barton.

The 20,000-seat stadium would have eight levels and a roof covering. Attached to it would be a 208-bed four-star hotel, a casino, museum, bars, and restaurants.

Surrounding it would be 230,000 square feet of non-food retail space. Together with the hotel and casino, it would generate funds to build the stadium and secure its viability.

Coaches

There would be 1,000 car parking spaces and a bay for 40 coaches.

Council officers have suggested restricting the use of the stadium to sporting events. They also want the developer to agree that 80 per cent of all construction and operational jobs created by the stadium should go to local people.

The council has received 67 letters objecting to the plan and 82 in favour, as well as a 273-name petition opposing the development and a 37-name one supporting it.

Many objectors are concerned about the need for more shops. They believe they could undermine struggling stores in Eccles.

Other concerns are increase in traffic noise, loss of greenspace; devaluation of property, fears of rowdy drunks, and light pollution from floodlights.

Supporters say the stadium would enhance the image of the city, help attract Metrolink, create jobs, and provide improved facilities for Salford Reds.

neal.keeling@men-news.co.uk

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