Further delays for stadium plan

Falkirk's Westfield stadium is only half complete, with plans for a third stand

The publication of plans for the future of Falkirk's Westfield football stadium are being delayed.

The stadium, which is only half complete, is run by Falkirk Council and Falkirk Football Club jointly as Falkirk Community Stadium Ltd (FCSL).

Site developer Henry Boot Ltd was expected to publish its business plans for the stadium and the 42 acres surrounding it next week.

Repeated delays to the project have already drawn criticism from fans.

An internet forum set up by supporters was investigated by Central Scotland Police last month amid allegations that local councillors were being threatened because of the delays.

The chairman of Falkirk Football Club, Campbell Christie, urged the developers to have the plans ready for the site by August.

Special meeting

He said: "It is very important that proposals are presented in August to Falkirk Council members and to our board and that there are no further postponements.

"I would ask all our supporters to be patient and allow FCSL's proposals to be properly completed as I have no doubt this is in the best interests of the club."

Councillor David Alexander said the delay was frustrating.

He added: "We are disappointed that there has been a delay again in taking this matter forward.

"This past 14 months has been frustrating indeed both in terms of the lack of detailed proposals coming forward and any sense of urgency being displayed by current leaders."

The local authority has given the green light for a third stand to be built, which will seat about 2,000 fans, thanks to a £2m pledge from Schuh founder and Falkirk supporter Sandy Alexander.

Falkirk Council leader Linda Gow said: "I recognise that the council was to receive a further report at our June meeting.

"However, we want to give FCSL more time to work up the detail and to complete their strategic review."

Ms Gow said the council planned to hold a special meeting to reveal the plans in August.