Scotty give his opinion on recent events at Kenilworth Road whether you want them or not!.
Another three points squandered against Leicester, Newell rumours resurface, Bill Tomlins finally m
Chairman’s Statement
Bill Tomlins’ eagerly awaited stadium announcement came in the match day programme and clearly stated what had been leaked last week.
The Chairman stated:
“Relocation is a subject that is important to all of us connected with the club. There I will continue to outline our position and progress via this column and in The Luton News and The Herald &Post.
“Whilst it is possible for the new stadium to be ready for the 2008-09 season, it is not practical for me to give a blow-by-blow account of every stage of our progress as changes are made as the planning process continues. A lot of additional work has been done behind the scenes since the club’s forced announcement in October due to the re-aligned Public Safety Zone. I can publicly state, in conjunction with the landowner, that we will shortly be appointing a substantial national developer for the 200-acre site, which will include the new 30-acre stadium complex. This will consist of a new modern 20,000 seater stadium, with 3,000 parking spaces that will also be available for a community park and ride service on non-match or event days. There will also be a new training ground with six training pitches plus a 100,000 square foot indoor community leisure facility.
“Of course it is all subject to planning consent. Once the developer has been appointed, they will work with the landowner and the club to present the overall development plan to the appropriate planning authorities. The next stage will be for them to submit a detailed planning application as soon as possible during 2006. Finally the whole package will be presented to the supporters and to the public. At that point, all parties will have their opportunity to comment on the move.”
Nimbys v Fans
“Whilst some local residents have genuine concerns that the proposed relocation site will affect them, there are some 2,000 plus Luton supporters living in the area who recognise the benefits that the facilities in the stadium complex, and also on the stadium site, will bring to the community as a whole.
“I believe that when the fuller picture is in place, we will be able to allay any concerns and demonstrate to the local residents the over-riding value of the benefits to the community, which will include employment opportunities.”
Instead of appeasing the fans, it merely served to cause more comments of derision and dissatisfaction. I can’t see why it should have had that effect.
Newspaper reports pointed out that it did not state which site it was for, Junction 10 or 12, and therefore mooted that perhaps Junction 10 was not a dead duck after all. Well! I would like to see how a 200-acre development would fit into a 55-acre site on Junction 10! Perhaps the local rag journalists only did English and not maths?
The report gives all the information that is current. It says that we will get a new stadium. What more do the fans want him to say? At this stage we have no choice but to wait and see what develops. I know we have been thwarted in the past, but one day it will happen ? who’s to say this is not that occasion?
Reserves win again
The reserves beat Southend 2-0 with goals from Morgan and Showunmi and Steve Robinson got in a full 90 minutes. Robbo is possibly the most under appreciated player currently. Luton’s season went pear-shaped when he was injured. Look at the results with him in the side against the results with him out of it. Coincidence? I don’t think so!
It should not go unnoticed that this was the reserves 9th straight win in thier league. Quite a feat!
Triallists
Cyril Ndiba, a midfielder from Cameroon, and an ex ? W*tford youngster in Mark Bardle were in the reserve line?up. Unfortunately, my reserve reporter was unable to attend and so I have no first hand information on their performances. What would the Town fans think of signing an ex-scummer?
Meanwhile James Walker who scored two on trial against Stevenage reserves is on trial in Leicester City Reserves team tonight. Maybe we should have tied him up when we had the chance? he looked very good.
Rumours
Rumours about Mike Newell going to Leicester resurfaced prior to the Leicester game, which is hardly surprising given the propensity of the press to find a story where none exists.
Mike denied the rumour, yet left doubt in the minds of the fans with a few thinly veiled snipes at the board for not telling him what his budget is for next season. If negotiations with interested parties are ongoing, to put money into the club, and nothing concrete has been sealed, how can the chairman tell him what he wants to know? He was provided with enough money to sign David Bell and to make two £500K bids in the transfer window which was not utilised, so that would be a good start. If more money comes in then more will be available one would imagine?
Have a good one
Scotty
