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STADIUM
& TRAINING GROUND DOUBLE FOR BLUES |
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The future is looking
bright for Southend United after plans for a state of
the art training ground, to accompany their new stadium
at Fossetts Farm, were approved at a meeting of
ochford District Council on Thursday evening. |
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How Fossetts Farm will look in 2008/09
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The training ground project, which includes three pitches
plus an all weather floodlit surface, was rubberstamped
just 24 hours after planning permission was given by
Southend Borough Council for their new stadium which will
be built close to their current Boots and Laces training
base.
Both projects still need to be given the green light by
the Secretary of State but the prospect of a 22,000 seater-stadium
has now become a firm reality rather than fantasy.
The Rochford District Council vote returned a result of
24-8 and Club chairman, Ron Martin, commented: "This
is a massive step forward for Southend United and a great
day in the club's history."
Southend fans packed out Rochford District Council's
public gallery with many left outside in the freezing
temperatures and Martin paid tribute to the loyal
following: "I wouldn't say I was surprised by the
support because I would expect nothing less from our great
fans.
"Their backing has been vital and now we'll give them
a football club befitting of their loyalty."
Included within the Training Ground approval are a number
of conditions with match day car parking to be built in
conjunction with the stadium and limited to 454 spaces
while floodlights for the all weather training pitch can
only be used at specific times.
Southend United hope to kick off the 2008/09 season in
their new home after more than 50 years at current ground,
Roots Hall.
The news means that both Southend and Colchester United
can begin planning for life in modern stadia after the U's
received council backing for a new ground at Cuckoo Farm
late last year.
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