York’s Community Stadium is finally complete – after years of delays.
City of York Council has confirmed the venue is finished and will be handed over on Friday.
It will open to the public on Monday (December 21).
The final safety checks have been completed and the council and operator GLL will take control of the venue on Friday.
Cllr Nigel Ayre said: “It is fantastic news that the players, staff and now fans will be enjoying their new home very soon. I can’t wait to see games played on this pitch.
“The fact we can now host world cup rugby league next Autumn shows what a game-changer this is for York. More importantly, we now have a stadium which can provide a platform for York City Football Club and the Knights to deliver on their serious ambitions.”
Eight years overdue
The site will have an 8,000 seat stadium for York City Football Club and York City Knights, a library and community hub, York Against Cancer shop and offices, NHS outpatient services, swimming pool, gym and sports hall.
The stadium was supposed to be completed by 2012 – meaning the project is now eight years overdue.
The scheme has been repeatedly delayed, with the latest setback caused by drainage issues.
In October, the company due to manage the complex revealed that drainage problems identified by the contractor had put the project back until Christmas.
City of York Council first committed to helping finance the new stadium back in 2008 – when the stadium was expected to be ready by 2012.
Planning permission has already been granted for 93 homes to be built on Bootham Crescent when the new stadium is open.
‘Incredible home’
Council leader Keith Aspden said: “The new stadium and wider complex will provide excellent facilities for sports fans and local residents alike.
“There is no doubt that it will be an incredible home for both York City Football Club and York City Knights, and an important destination for the wider city.
“With a new leisure centre, pool, library and NHS Services, the complex is providing a timely and very welcome boost to the whole city.
”These are strange and difficult times to open new buildings and services, but we are working with every partner to make sure residents can enjoy them safely, and as soon as possible.”