I suspect it will end up deserted and derelict like most of the office building on Vic Ave.
You are correct that we need a new planning application for this as it is materially different to what has already been approved. However I don't agree that we are "back to square one" as the approval following the previous enquiry and more recent changes to Government planning policy means that the new application should have a much shorter and less bumpy journey!
If you're referring to my post, I said "it seems", not that it is. This was based on the fact that BL are now involved and I would imagine they would have everything in place by the time they're ready to start the build. I do get your point though: it's not guaranteed, but it does seem to be promising.
In fairness the original plans didn't have a bumpy journey. The issue was funding. The plans were approved pretty quickly. They may have been called in, but even that went relatively smoothly. I guess the fact that the previous plans were agreed, and therefore that a "proof of concept" has already been agreed means that these plans should go though pretty smoothly which may save time.
But in terms of the process we are back where we started. For that reason I still think we're back to square one, but at least there is now light at the end of the tunnel.
I dont see that this will be easier to get agreed than the first attempt.
This looks more positive but my worry is previously the we were unsure how the club would financially benefit from the development with one main party/developer. Now there are 2 development partners, we are likely to get a smaller cut of the undisclosed share of the pie :unsure:
But i guess a small share is better than no share....just as long as we get enough to keep us going.
It will be, because the principal of a stadium on this site along with some associated enabling development (retail and housing) has already been agreed and been through a public enquiry process.
The great news is that British Land plc are involved and are fully committed. The bad news is it's still a long way off because getting Southend Council and government approval will be very difficult, and may spark another public inquiry. This will still run and run.
However I do feel that British Land are unlikely to let it drag any longer than necessary.
Ron tried but,for whatever the reason,, funds etc, he lacked to nous, ability or whatever, to get the momentum up, I think BL have what it takes, as long as they are allowed to do what they do best.
Well Ron Woodley for Southend Council has already said he is not happy with the new bigger plans, and the effect it will have on traffic and the High Street etc etc.
Sounds to me like we are dealing with pros now regarding a new stadium rather then a supermarket ???
"British Land plc is the UK’s largest listed owner and manager of retail space and a market leader in the design and development of Shopping Parks. Their skill is to create environments which support today’s work and leisure lifestyles… providing a perfect ‘neighbour’ for the Clubs plans".
So, if they are a "neighbour" to the clubs plans (I assume the cinema), have we got a backer for the stadium ?
Yours is a rhetorical question at the moment, and truthfully I doubt we will ever know the answer until it is irrelevant.
We have an invite to ask questions (below), maybe then is the time to ask, chances are it will be commercial in confidence, but you never know.
Please come along to the consultation. There will be both professional personnel, coordinating the application, and members of the Clubs Commercial Team to discuss the plans and answer questions.
Read more at http://www.southendunited.co.uk/new...e-commercial-2732488.aspx#PuQlC2g0k7xpwPJQ.99
Lets hope answers are forthcoming and not met with the usual "email Ron as I dont know the details" response.
I'm gonna demand answers from the man with the beautifully quaffed hair !
"British Land plc is the UK’s largest listed owner and manager of retail space and a market leader in the design and development of Shopping Parks. Their skill is to create environments which support today’s work and leisure lifestyles… providing a perfect ‘neighbour’ for the Clubs plans".
So, if they are a "neighbour" to the clubs plans (I assume the cinema), have we got a backer for the stadium ?
One (mildly) interesting thing is that the the main stand will once again be on the east side of the ground meaning that the bench will be facing the direction of the setting sun. Remember your sunglasses!
I will consider it if asked:unsure:Saxon King reeks!
Hopefully they put a spoons in!