Aberdeen FC have submitted a detailed planning application for the creation of a new 20,000-seat stadium on the outskirts of the city.

The Dons want to build the arena and training facility at Kingsford, between Westhill and Kingswells, eight miles away from their current Pittodrie home.

The club's proposals for the 25-hectare site include three professional training pitches, two community 3G pitches and a community pavilion with offices and a gym.

Plans also include a fan zone, club shop, cafe, 1600 parking spaces, a memorial garden and an AFC Heritage Museum.

The plans, if approved by Aberdeen City Council, will lead to more than £40m committed to the project.

The club says it hopes the new stadium and training facilities will create a "focal point for footballing excellence in the north east".

George Yule, executive vice-chairman of Aberdeen Football Club, said: "Our vision is to deliver essential community and training facilities and a new stadium, which will collectively support the ambitions of the community trust, club and fans.

"This will create a focal point for footballing excellence and public participation in sport.

"This project is fundamental for the future of the community trust and the club, and for maximising the benefits they can deliver for the city and region."

Opponents No Kingsford Stadium claim the arena would have a negative effect on Westhill.

They are concerned about its environmental impact, as well as potential increases in traffic, noise and light pollution.

A spokesman said: "There are a number of major concerns about this planning application.

"Were the stadium to be approved, it would fundamentally change the nature and perception of Westhill, Kingswells and the surrounding areas."

"Moving the home of AFC over seven miles to the city border is against the Aberdeen city centre master plan which aims to regenerate the city centre," he added.

"It is for these reasons that we strongly object to this planning application.

"No Kingsford Stadium group, along with our planning, environmental and transport consultants, will now be fully reviewing the application ahead of submitting our formal objections."