Brady Calls For Stadium Backing

Birmingham chief executive Karren Brady today said it would a "tragedy" if a lack of local authority support scuppered the club's plans for a state-of-the-art 50,000-capacity stadium.

Brady today revealed the striking designs for the proposed new stadium which is to be funded by the Las Vegas Sands Corporation on condition of receiving an appropriate casino licence.

The Blues intend to become the primary tenants of the £200million complex which would also provide facilities for cricket, athletics and rock concerts.

Brady said: "This is a fantastic opportunity for the city of Birmingham and the region.

"The people of Birmingham stand to benefit hugely both economically and socially from the development and proudly witness their city become host to world-class events which will put Birmingham and the West Midlands on the map for years to come.

"If the second city were to miss out because of a lack of support from our local authority in applying for the necessary casino, it would be a tragedy."

Birmingham City Council have given a cautious welcome to the club's plans, insisting there are a number of obstacles to overcome before the stadium and its funding can be secured.

Councillor Ken Hardeman, the cabinet member for regeneration, said in a statement: "I am excited by the club's proposals and the potential additional regeneration benefits.

"A decision as to whether the city council should support the concept of super casinos politically has yet to be taken.

"We are still awaiting further detail from the Government as to whether Birmingham is to be given an option to develop a super casino in the city or region, bearing in mind that the Gaming Bill has, at this stage, only identified one super casino option, with Blackpool being the likely location."