Sunderland A.F.C has announced plans to object to Sunderland City Council’s housing development proposals.

The football club is set to make a formal objection to the local authority’s development plans, which will involve houses being constructed near the Stadium of Light.

According to the council, the scheme will help to deliver ‘high-quality homes, jobs, and leisure opportunities for local people’, boosting ‘social and economic growth’.

However, due to the council’s plans to permit housing development on the buffer zone surrounding the stadium, Sunderland A.F.C chairman Kyril Louis-Dreyfus is said to have confirmed that the club will oppose the project.

The club’s former chairman, Sir Bob Murray, has reportedly labelled the plans a ‘disgrace’.

Sunderland City Council Chief Executive, Patrick Melia, said: ‘We have held extensive discussions with Sir Bob Murray in relation to this development and we have acknowledged his comments made over recent months.

‘Robust assurances have been given that the proposed Sheepfolds development as set out here will not impact on any planned future expansion of the Stadium of Light or in its ability to host matches, concerts or other events.’

The council’s statement argued that the application is ‘subject to a rigorous statutory planning process’, which involves ‘extensive public and stakeholder consultation’.

Mr Melia added: ‘The council has sought specialist support and expertise in developing the proposals that are currently out for consultation. This is because we very much recognise the importance of the Stadium of Light as an asset for the city, residents and all visitors.’