Question reference: S1W-00756
- Asked by: Michael Matheson, MSP for Central Scotland, Scottish National Party
- Date lodged: 30 July 1999
-
Current status: Answered by Rhona Brankin on 10 August 1999
Question
To ask the Scottish Executive in the light of the Scottish Premier League's decision to restrict entry to the Scottish Premier Division by refusing to allow teams promoted from Division One to enter into temporary ground sharing arrangements, what action it plans in order to assist those clubs who will be disadvantaged by this ruling, in particular Falkirk F.C.
Answer
Entry requirements for the Scottish Premier Division are a matter for the Scottish Premier League. Government Ministers would not normally seek to intervene in matters that are the responsibility of the relevant football authorities.The then Secretary of State did, however, grant Falkirk Football Club planning permission in May 1996 for the development of a 15,000 all-seater football stadium and associated facilities at Westfield Farm, Falkirk. Following a recent meeting with Falkirk Council I understand that Falkirk FC now intends to build a 10,000 seater stadium. This would require Falkirk FC to submit a fresh planning application to the local authority.