A business case for a new Aberdeen Football Club stadium is to be drawn up as Aberdeen City Council progresses work to regenerate the beachfront area.
The full council yesterday approved a draft beachfront development framework which would integrate the Beach Ballroom with potential new sport and leisure facilities.
The Press and Journal says that councillors have now agreed the timeline for major construction work.
Under the itinerary, work could commence on the multi-million pound seaside revamp by the end of next year.
The scheme will include a distinctive boardwalk stretching out into the sea, playparks, a new events arena, the creation of an ampitheatre and the rejuvenation of the Beach Ballroom.
And officers have also now been instructed to compile a business case for a new Aberdeen FC stadium as part of the masterplan.
This will be discussed later this year, with the Dons reported to be appearing increasingly keen on the idea of relocating near to their historic Pittodrie home.
Support for new stadium
It emerged a few weeks ago that an overwhelming majority of Aberdeen fans support a new stadium as part of the ambitious plans to revitalise the beachfront.
More than 6,500 people responded to a recent survey by the club, with 92% of them in support of the beach location for a new stadium to replace Pittodrie.
The main reasons given for the support were keeping the stadium in the city, close to its original home and heritage and where it can benefit city-centre businesses.
Council Co-Leader Councillor Alex Nicoll said yesterday: "It is good to hear progress on the plans in the beach masterplan which are designed to create an open and more accessible beachfront with new facilities, and we look forward to more updates in the coming months."
Council Co-Leader Councillor Ian Yuill added: "The beachfront plans would help to create more facilities for both residents and visits alike."
Progress on many projects in the beach masterplan are to be reported to full council in December.