Superdome boss John Garside has announced the appointment of a finance director to take his ambitious scheme forward.

The announcement comes almost a week after criticism that no real progress had been reported to a meeting of Bradford Council's Corporate Executive Sub-committee which only lasted 12 minutes.

Malcolm J Wilson, a former group finance director of Yorkshire Group PLC, a multi-national chemicals group based in Leeds, has been selected to run the funding for the planned £200 million scheme at Odsal Stadium, Bradford.

Superdome has already appointed bankers Arbuthnot, Latham & Co to select financial backers for the project.

Mr Wilson said he was looking forward to being a part of one of the most ambitious and exciting leisure and entertainment developments ever planned in Britain.

Superdome chief executive Mr Garside said he was delighted with the appointment which he described as a further confirmation of the company's progress in bringing together a quality team to manage the development of the complex.

He said: "Malcolm's significant financial pedigree, particularly with the City of London, is an important element for all involved in National Superdome. We have been intent in appointing the right person for this important post.''

The scheme has run into major controversy because of the delays since it was first announced five years ago.

Mr Garside says it will create a world-class facility, including a huge stadium for Bradford Bulls rugby league club and prestige leisure facilities. But Bradford Bulls boss Chris Caisley has withdrawn his support for the scheme and is backing Meadowhall developer Eddie Healey who wants to build a prestige stadium and shopping complex on the site.

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