New Aberdeen FC stadium plan approved

Image caption, The new stadium would be able to hold about 21,000 fans

A new football stadium for Aberdeen FC has been approved by councillors, subject to approval by Scottish ministers.

The Dons have been given permission to build the 拢40m stadium, capable of holding about 21,000 fans, at Loirston Loch in the south of Aberdeen.

The council decision will now be called in by Scottish ministers, who will scrutinise the plan.

Planners had previously recommended approval for the stadium.

Councillors heard a report saying the stadium would be an iconic landmark and an important gateway to Aberdeen.

The stadium plans include a gym, a club shop, museum and cafe, and the whole facility would be lit at night by a red glow.

The planning application followed a public consultation.

Councillors rejected 140 objections from local communities and groups concerned about the environmental impact of the stadium.

Aberdeen FC intends to sell its current home at Pittodrie near the beach for housing.

Meanwhile, councillors approved a third bridge over the River Don. This will also be called in.

Image caption, The meeting was used to pay tribute to the late Ron Clark

They earlier paid tribute to long-serving Aberdeen councillor Ron Clark, who died at the weekend.

Mr Clark, the Lib Dem representative for Dyce, Bucksburn and Danestone, had been in public service for more than 30 years.

Lord Provost Peter Stephen and the leaders of each political party each paid tribute to Mr Clark.

Members also held a minute's silence before the meeting got under way.