Plans to downsize Meadowbank Stadium have been defended by Deidre Brock, Edinburgh City Council's sports leader after community outcry.

Under council plans land will be sold to housing developers and the 16,000 seater stadium with be replaced with a 5,000 capacity arena.

Deidre Brock said decisions on the future of the stadium were not taken lightly and the process to develop the site is ongoing.


Craigentinny/Meadowbank Community Council said the move was "completely at odds with what the public wanted". They believe almost two thirds of the existing facilities will be lost and that more facilities, not less are needed.

Brock said funds generated from the sale of part site will be re-invested in the brand new sports facilities that the city needs: "Maintaining the old Meadowbank would cost vast amounts and retaining the whole site would also leave a very large bill for the council tax payer." She added

Land sold from the housing development will be used to help pay for the new £30m stadium, along with grants.

(GK/JM)