Caledonian Gladiators announce £20m stadium for East Kilbride that could also become live music venue

Caledonia Gladiators have announced an ambitious £20m plan to build ‘Europe’s finest basketball stadium’ in East Kilbride - which could also see the town host regular music concerts.

Club owner and smart meter millionaire Steve Timoney and his wife Alison yesterday announced the largest single investment in Scottish basketball history, when they revealed they will embark on a two-stage project for a 6000-seater development at the Playsport facility in Stewartfield.

It is earmarked for completion in 2026 and is also expected to bring a jobs boost to the town.

An initial, temporary development phase will see Gladiators - formerly Glasgow Rocks - move into to a 1800-seater arena at Playsport in August.

Work will then begin on the main project next year to bring the main 6000-seater venue, complete with five-court practice and community facility to fruition.

Gladiators hope the stadium can also act as a concert venue that can ‘fill the gap between mid to large size venues’, such as the 14,000-seater OVO Hydro in Glasgow.

And the club have ambitious plans to make Playsport - which is owned by Mr and Mrs Timoney - home to the Team GB basketball squad.

A statement read: “Caledonia Gladiators has ambitious plans for the project, including aspirations to see the stadium become the finest facility for basketball in Europe and ultimately become the home of Team GB.

“It will house a world-class training academy, with the aim of welcoming young players from across Scotland and all around the globe, as well as a dedicated accommodation area, gym facilities and physio suites.

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