The installation of a new spectator stand as part of the redevelopment of Gussie Park will now proceed after Dundee United Supporters’ Foundation members agreed to donate a further £50,000 towards the project.
In a ballot of members conducted over the last three days 95.6% voted for the proposal from a turnout of 79.9%.
This overwhelming vote in favour of the proposal means the stand installation will be completed in time for the new season. DUSF members have already raised funds towards a FIFA-approved playing surface, perimeter fencing, improved spectator areas, new FIFA-compliant floodlighting, replacement goals and technical areas and upgraded toilets and changing rooms.
Dundee United Supporters’ Foundation commented:
“We are delighted that Foundation members have given such a resounding vote in favour of the proposal.
This means that, outwith the contribution from the Scottish Government, DUSF members have funded a significant proportion of the recent Gussie Park improvements.
The completion of the spectator stand during the summer will allow the youth academy and women's team to play their home games at Gussie Park and will significantly improve the viewing experience of spectators attending these games.
We believe this use of members' contributions meets our overall principle of 'ensuring our future'. We are also delighted that the new facility will be named 'The Foundation Park' so that the magnificent efforts by DUSF members to make it a reality will be remembered forever.
This ballot result increases the sum invested in the Gussie Park redevelopment by Dundee United Supporters’ Foundation members to £382,000, and the sum invested in total to Dundee United FC, fans' projects and charities to £523,000 since our launch in 2017. This is a fantastic achievement of which our members should be extremely proud."
Dundee United FC Chief Executive Luigi Capuano said, “Dundee United thank DUSF members for the overwhelming approval in the vote. The club can now complete this phase of the project and the installation of the spectator stand will bring the facility up to a fantastic standard that will improve the experience for spectators but also mean that it meets the criteria required for use in the SWPL.
“It is a significant milestone to install the stand and Gussie Park, soon to be renamed The Foundation Park, will now be a fantastic hub for our Academy as we look to continue the development of players for the future.”
Membership
Membership of the Foundation is open to all Dundee United supporters with a minimum contribution of £10 per month. Members will be entitled to voting rights. A non-voting Junior membership of £2.50 per month is available to fans aged 16 years and below. To become a member, go to www.dusf.scot/pledge