The 8 mile limit might not be relevant with the Football League (hence MK Dons) but it is a restriction for the re-opened public enquiry.
Criterion (i) Is the site within the conurbation of Brighton and Hove?
Waterhall might be ideal, but it't the wrong side of the A27, therefore undisputably in the National Park and not available for development of any sort. Waterhall was Belotti's preferred site but was not proceeded with for that reason.