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New stadium is planned for Silkmen

Chris Hudson
19/ 9/2007

MACCLESFIELD Town FC are planning to move to a brand new 10,000 seater, top-of-the-range stadium as part of a proposed multi-million pound development.

The new stadium would be included in the 58-acre South Macclesfield Development Area – Dane’s Moss – which would also be home to a supermarket, houses, and new offices.

MBC officers are expected to recommended to cabinet members today (Wednesday, September 19) that the land earmarked for retail/leisure and employment use for the last ten years be looked at in greater detail to examine whether or not the project can be carried out.

Noises coming out of League Two outfit Macclesfield Town FC are very positive.

The club has been talking to the council about a potential move from their 6,335 capacity Moss Rose home – a site they have occupied since 1891 – for the last few years.

The club wants to construct a "community beacon" and not just a stadium – a site which contains a health centre, classrooms and community sporting facilities.

Chief executive, Patrick Nelson, said: "We are very optimistic this is where the future of the club lies.

"But this is not just for Macclesfield Town, it is also for the community and we would consult to find out what stadium is right for everyone."

The area was earmarked for development back in 2000, before councillors controversially refused the planning application to build a B&Q store – a saga which became known as "Danegate".

MBC’s chief planning officer, Peter Yates, was also pleased with the proposals which would be a joint venture with Cheshire County Council and the Macclesfield Chamber of Commerce.

He said: "This is about creating jobs for the town.

"The stadium will cater for 10,000, but at the minute there is a long way to go before there is a masterplan.

"There are a lot of highways issues that need to be sorted out as well."

Chief executive of the Macclesfield Chamber of Commerce, John Lamond, is hopeful and optimistic that the plans will become a reality.

He said: "This scheme will bring in employment, housing and satisfy business needs.

"We have advocated this scheme for some time and are feeling very positive about it."