The Gibraltar Social Democrats (GSD) have unveiled an alternate proposal to the territory of Gibraltar’s Europa Stadium plan, revealing designs that would allow the team’s existing stadium to be upgraded.

The alternate plan by John Linares Architects would feature Victoria Stadium at the heart of a wider sports village, with four UEFA/FIFA compliant football pitches, as well as a multi-purpose sports facility. The GSD’s plan would also create an educational hub in the Rooke complex, which would free up the site currently occupied by Bayside Comprehensive, allowing roads to be re-routed around the new facilities.

The GSD, is in opposal to the Gibraltar FA’s plans, stating that Europa Point – one of the only open flat spaces still left in Gibraltar – will be ruined, as will the panoramic views of the Strait, Morocco and Spain.

“I’m really excited by these plans to upgrade Victoria Stadium,” said GSD leader Daniel Feetham, speaking during a party political broadcast on Gibraltan television. “It shows that we don’t have to destroy Europa Point.”

The existing plan for Gibraltar, which is also aiming for FIFA membership in time to play in the qualifiers for the 2018 World Cup, comprises an 8,000-capacity stadium at the coveted Europa Point on the south of the island. The stadium will also be used for concerts.