Southend United's multi-million-pound move to a new stadium could be under threat because of tough new Government guidelines.
The new rules, unveiled today by Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott, could also scupper proposals for a B&Q warehouse on the same site, at Fossetts Farm, Southend.
The Government wants a clampdown on businesses seeking to move from town centres to out-of-town sites.
Southend United and B&Q have bases in the heart of the town but both want to move to the outskirts.
Sue Steer, of protest group Karers (Keeping our Amenities, Recreational and Environmental Resources Safe), believes Mr Prescott's move will boost the campaign.
She said: "It is so wrong that we have all of these huge businesses moving out of town centres. Not only does it affect the residents in these areas but it is killing smaller trade and pushing out businesses which have been in the area for years."
The B&Q application, which could create 250 new jobs, has been called in for scrutiny by Mr Prescott's department because it goes against the local planning blueprint.
Roger Weaver, Southend Council's executive member in charge of planning, said: "We have to recognise we have no space in the town centre for the type of store which is being proposed by B&Q."
Ron Martin, co-owner of Southend United, said: "I believe the type of development proposed cannot be accommodated in a town-centre environment and there will be no conflict."
Published Wednesday, April 23, 2003
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