"Darlington cannot afford to miss out on a multi-million pound investment which will become a real asset to the town."

That is what The Northern Echo said three years ago at the height of the planning debate over Darlington Football Club's new stadium.

Today, as the magnificent Reynolds Arena opens with an historic first game against Kidderminster, we retain that view.

We also said this three years ago: "It is crucial that the promises made to nearby residents are kept."

Ensuring that the planning conditions were adhered to was a condition of our support for the stadium and that remains our position.

The Reynolds Arena is stunning - of that there is no doubt. Sadly, its development has been marred by the club's ham-fisted approach to public relations - which at times has damaged the image of the town - and the fact that some planning promises have yet to be met.

But the stadium itself has enhanced Darlington's image. It is a credit to George Reynolds, the men who built it in challenging circumstances, Darlington Football Club, Darlington Borough Council and the town.

Mr Reynolds can justifiably be proud that he not only saved the Quakers from bankruptcy but gave the club a home which fans could not have imagined in their wildest dreams. We congratulate him for doing so.

Safety restrictions mean it will not be the full-house adulation Mr Reynolds imagined in his recent autobiography. Nevertheless, it is an important day in Darlington's history and we hope it is crowned with a home win.

But then an even bigger challenge begins. Once the first game is over, the novelty will quickly wear off and a stadium capable of holding 27,500 will seem empty if team performances fail to attract crowds above last season's average of 3,000. Unless Mick Tait proves to be a miracle-worker, that means new players are essential as Mr Reynolds acknowledged this week.

The game is also far from over for Darlington Borough Council. If it is to have any credibility, the remaining planning conditions - notably the residents' parking scheme - have to be finalised without further delay.

We acknowledge the many difficulties behind the scenes, but council leaders made a public pledge and fulfilment is already overdue.

Ultimately, we all want a proud and thriving football club, with its heart in the local community.

Farewell to Feethams. Hello to the Reynolds Arena. Come on Quakers!