Aberdeen's new stadium timeline revealed and what next for Pittodrie

Pittodrie has witnessed many a special night in Aberdeen’s long and illustrious history, none more so than on the European stage.

Hamburg, Feyenoord and Bayern Munich were all defeated at the stadium in the 1980s as the club enjoyed success on the continent. More recently, a 4-0 thumping of Copenhagen in 2007 is still remembered very fondly.

In 2022, there is still something special about Pittodrie. The ground itself may have disparate parts but it remains unique. There is the Richard Donald Stand which towers over the pitch and the three other stands, including the old Main Stand. While the perimeter fence which separates the home and away fans in the South Stand is something of a throwback. Then the area between South and Merkland Stands where supporters get an excellent vantage point to peer across the ground, albeit exposed to the elements, is a key feature of match days. On the outside, there is a mix of old and new with the stadium facade, including the iconic stone turnstiles.

Despite all that charm and warmth, it is clear Pittodrie, which has been Aberdeen's home ever since the club was founded in 1903, has entered its final years and doesn’t feature in the long-term plans of the Dons.

A new ground, as part of a city renovation of the beachfront, is an important ambition for the club. One which, it is thought, will help take the club onto the next level, opening up opportunities for increased revenue and possibilities.

With such an undertaking, there are a number of hurdles still to cross, the next of which is expected to be a vote next month by the Aberdeen City Council to decide whether to go to the next stage.

"What we’re focused on just now is working with the city council and this is the best relationship