Southend United owner Ron Martin expects Blues' long-winded planning application for a new stadium to finally be considered by the town council early next year.

Martin told shareholders attending Thursday night's general meeting at Roots Hall's Shrimpers Bar that the proposal for a 16,000 capacity ground should go before the planning committee on February 7.

And he said he was "confident" that both the football club and local authority were on the same wavelength when it came to the development which is planned for Fossetts Farm on the outskirts of town.

Martin, who had Colin Wagman, the deputy chairman of the football club's joint venture company Delancey Estates in attendance, also admitted he had still failed to purchase the whole of the Fossetts Farm site, but believed the council were still prepared to put compulsory purchase orders into operation if needed.

Although, Martin did add that he hoped his company, Billericay property developers Martin Dawn plc, could purchase the land via private treaty from its owner Landsbury Developments Ltd.

Wagman confirmed Blues had not started to pay the £400,000 a year rent now due on their Roots Hall home under the terms of the sale and leaseback of the stadium.

He also added that no interest had been charged, however he said that all figures were being accrued.

And when asked if the club would be able to finally stand on its own two feet again if the relocation eventually takes place, Martin said: "Southend United would be able to raise its own debt against its assets."

Martin revealed he was nearing a compensation agreement with former manager Alan Little who was sacked in October with 20 months left on his contract.

"I expect a settlement of terms to be completed within the next few days which is satisfactory to both Alan and myself," Martin added.

Martin was voted back on to the board of directors by shareholders, as was Ray Osborne, but only just, by 17 votes to 15.

By Bernie Friend

Reporter's e-mail: bernie.friend@notes.newsquest.co.uk

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