HC Deb 04 March 2004 vol 418 c1100W
Kate Hoey

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what element of soccer strategy money has been set aside for improvements to Windsor Park, Belfast. [158324]

Angela Smith

To date no element of Soccer Strategy money has been set aside for improvements to Windsor Park, Belfast. However, an indicative sum of £3 million is earmarked from Soccer Strategy money for playing facilities generally. The playing facilities component of the Soccer Strategy is currently being subjected to independent economic appraisal. Improvements to Windsor Park could be considered as part of that component. I will, though, wish to be satisfied that recommendations in relation to Governance and that accountability arrangements provide appropriate safeguards for public funds, before any element of Soccer Strategy money, including that for playing facilities, could be released.