Gregory Campbell today slammed the 'final nail in the coffin' of a much-mooted multi-sports stadium at the former Maze prison site.

According to BBC News, the Sports Minister has finally decided to drop the plans, following months of uncertainty and political wrangling.

Mr Campbell said he will seek an alternative way forward for Northern Ireland football, rugby and Gaelic games, and pledged to help develop solutions to each sport's individual needs.

The Minister is expected to grant Windsor Park in Belfast funding to improve the stadium's facilities.

This will enable the Linfield ground to stage international events until a long-term option is agreed, the BBC has reported.

Officials are said to be in talks with Linfield FC and the IFA to organise limited remedial works at the grounds.

The Minister hinted that his department would also release cash to upgrade other grounds in the province.

Mr Campbell reaffirmed the importance of dealing with the three local sports even-handedly.

-- Advertisement --

He is said to be still looking at the possibility of a new stadium, either on a single or shared sport basis.

Mr Campbell, explaining his decision in an executive paper, told Stormont colleagues of the insufficient political consensus on a Maze development.

He said a net loss to the economy of between £156m and £193m did not compensate for the non-monetary benefits which may flow from a shared stadium.

Mr Campbell said he is interested in proposals developed by Belfast City Council to build a city centre stadium.

See: Minister Allays Maze Confusion Over Ravenhill Upgrade

See: Maze Stadium Plans 'Deferred' For Four Years

See: European Parliament Could Assist Maze Development

See: Alliance MLA Attacks 'Unacceptable' Delays On Maze Decision

See: Poots Still 'Optimistic' About Maze Stadium

See: Maze Stadium To Be Dropped?

See: 'Release Stadium Buildings Jobs', Says Sinn Fein

See: Maze Talks Renew At Stormont

See: Maze Stadium Confusion Continues

See: Minister's Maze Verdict Due In Weeks

(PR/JM)