Sheffield Council deny United claims over Wednesday bias

By Duncan Mackay

January 7 – Sheffied City Council today denied accusations from Sheffield United that they favoured a planning application from local rivals Sheffield Wednesday over them to help them be chosen as venue for the 2018 World Cup if England’s bid to host the tournament.

United are angry that England 2018 overlooked their bid to be a host ground in favour of Hillsborough, Wednesday’s stadium.

They claim Sheffield City Council fast-tracked a planning application to ensure that they would be included.

The club’s lawyers have now started taking legal action against Sheffield City Council and have submitted a series of questions to the Ombudsman, which could lead to them seeking an independent judicial review.

United’s application to make improvements to Bramall Lane was submitted in early August and approved on November 2, while Wednesday’s went in later in August and was approved on October 20.

John Mothersole, the chief executive of Sheffield City Council, said: “Sheffield United, through their lawyers, have asked a number of questions in relation to planning issues – to which we have already replied.

“It is up to Sheffield United if they wish to make public the questions that they have asked.

“I can confirm that Sheffield City Council has acted in a totally transparent and professional way throughout the planning process.

“Both clubs, as with all applications have been treated fairly and equally following the relevant statutory processes, policies and guidelines.”

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