Work on Aberdeen FC’s new 21,000-seat stadium could begin within the next six months after a preferred bidder was named.

Barr Construction, who previously worked on the redevelopment of Celtic Park and Hibernian’s Easter Road, has been named as the preferred contractor for the £38million stadium at Loirston Loch.

The company said it was delighted to be involved with the project.

Barr Construction managing director Barclay Chalmers said: “There is a real sense of anticipation around the new Aberdeen FC stadium and we are very proud to be playing our part in providing a sporting arena which will inspire Aberdeen FC and their thousands of fans for generations to come.

“Our in-house team will be working to finalise the design for the new stadium and we look forward to working with Aberdeen FC and Aberdeen City Council to create an iconic facility, not only for the north-east, but for the whole of Scotland.”

Barr said that they hope to conclude the contract to build the stadium by the end of the year and aim to start on site in early 2012. Aberdeen FC is keen for the stadium to be constructed in time for the kick-off of the 2013/14 season.

One of the proposed stadium’s unique features will see horizontal bands of translucent cladding installed around the top of the stadium bowl, allowing it to emit a red glow at night to match the team’s colours.

Councillors approved the plans for the stadium in February by 23 votes to 17, despite almost 150 objections about its impact on traffic congestion and the local environment.  The Scottish Government approved the application a month later. 

In Detail

• New £38million stadium gets go-ahead
• Aberdeen stadium plans unveiled to the public
• Aberdeen FC’s £30million stadium plans approved
• Milne confident Aberdeen can raise new stadium cash
• Decision expected for new Aberdeen stadium
• Aberdeen stadium decision deferred
• Proposed £40m stadium for Aberdeen FC