Residents of the Dyce suburb of Aberdeen have sent out the message that they are fully behind a multi-million plan to build a world-class sports and leisure complex.

Within hours of volunteers blitzing 2,500 homes in Dyce with an awareness leaflet, a specially set-up hot-line was flooded with messages backing the proposed eco-friendly state-of-the-art complex.

A team of volunteers from the six main bodies initially spearheading the project had distributed the leaflets on a door-by-door basis. Local shops, hotels and businesses were also targeted.

Dyce Sports and Leisure Development Trust (DSLDT) chairperson Sue Lemon said: "This early positive support from the public is fantastic - and we now will be spreading the message far and wide - including all areas of north and north-east Scotland which could reap benefits from such an innovative complex."


Also helping out are two of the Dyce ward's four local councillors - Councillors Ron Clark and George Penny. The two councillors are respectively chairman and vice-chairman of Dyce Development and Amenities Committee. Councillor Barney Crockett has also pledged his support.

The consultation process includes a major in-depth questionnaire and market research exercise which is being distributed during May.

The Trust has had financial help from Dyce Development and Amenities Committee and Dyce and Newhills Community Council, plus a grant of £10,000 under the Big Lottery Awards for All scheme. It has also had much help and extensive practical advice from Aberdeen Council of Voluntary Organisations (ACVO).

The Trust has exclusive access to part of a 17-acre site off Pitmedden Road, Dyce - bequeathed by a local benefactor on the condition that it was only to be used for sports and leisure facilities for the community.

The remainder of the land is owned by Aberdeen City Council which has indicated that it is prepared to lease its land to the Trust on a small annual rental basis.

The public consultation process will continue throughout May and early June, and the Trust hopes a decision can be taken to proceed with the project - based on the positive findings of the research study, by late June.

Should the project meet public approval, and outline planning permission is sought this autumn, sponsorship would then be sought from the business, industrial and commercial sectors, and applications made to a range of grant-funding bodies on a Scottish and UK-wide basis.

(GK/JM)