Fossetts Farm Stadium scheme might come to fruition in 2020

Article posted by Coliseum, October 21^st, 2019

Image: Southend United FC

Talks are still on as regards the future of the still-hanging-fire Fossetts Farm Stadium scheme. Fossetts Farm Stadium is the provisional name for a venue proposed to be built in Southend-on-Sea in United Kingdom.

A clear picture might emerge on the 21,000-seat stadium in Spring of next year. Initially, the city council did not reveal how much time is needed for further discussions with Southend United – the professional association football club based in Southend-on-Sea, Essex, England. But, finally the six-month window time was announced – which means by March.

The latest version is that by March it would also be clear as to what contribution the developers propose, and the decision might go in their favor.

A joint statement made by the club’s Chairman, Ron Martin, and Councilor Carole Mulroney, stated, “The application for a new football stadium and associated facilities is the single largest and most complex planning application in the town for a number of years. Its impact on the borough as a whole could be quite profound, so it needs very careful consideration.”

The statement further read, “It is in the interests of both the council and the football club that the planning application is as robust and thorough as it can be so that the development control committee can make an informed decision and ensure it benefits the town as a whole.”

“For this reason, we have mutually agreed to allow extra time for work to be carried out on the application and we will continue to work closely together during this period to resolve any outstanding planning issues,” the statement maintained.

The Fossetts Farm Stadium scheme is one of England’s oldest ongoing projects. Early images were unveiled way back in 2006. The updated design is waiting for a nod and the facility would boast a lot of added attractions – five residential buildings, four training fields, a cinema, shops and restaurants are a part of the scheme of things.

If green lighted, Southend United’s future might brighten. There arises a possibility that the Root Hall Stadium might be pulled down and in lieu of it will come up 500 new homes.

It may be recalled that way back in 2006, the idea of building a new stadium for Southend United, north of the city centre, took birth. By 2008, the entire concept was in place and permission was sought, but the same never came to fruition.

In 2015, it was decided that housing firm British Land would co-finance the stadium while also including two blocks of flats within the building (in both western corners). A decision was arrived at that the third one would be built along the east stand, totaling the residential part at huge 240 homes.

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