Smile, you could be on Ron's video diary when the spades hit the ground!

Last updated : 20 May 2009 By Exiled Essex Boy

The following is edited from Ron Martin's Weekly Blog:

It is a few weeks since I spoke about the project itself and I can let you know that our construction team is currently engaged in detailed discussion with contractors. This includes input from not just our architects and structural engineers but also cost consultants to ensure we maximise the synergy between the various elements of development.


Not that anyone has forgotten but in addition to the stadium which includes a hotel, the enabling development comprises a significant retail park, adjacent, which will be occupied by some 15 tenants. This also includes the construction of the replacement St Mary's Court being the block of 36 flats which fronts Victoria Avenue adjacent Roots Hall owned by the Council and of course the Sainsbury's store which will follow.


Many of you would have read in the press of Southend Borough Council's support for the use of CPO (Compulsory Purchase Orders) to ensure delivery of the Sainsbury's development which, of course, is a key financial driver for the new stadium.


Whilst it is hoped that it will not be necessary to invoke CPO, preferring to conclude matters by negotiation, it is also vital to understand that this major regeneration project for the town of Southend is not frustrated by one or two individuals seeking to ransom the Club. I have said publically this is a win-win situation and all those parties affected by the site assembly will benefit. Let's hope that everyone sees the good sense in our fairly based objectives so that our programme is not hindered or delayed.


Of course the Sainsbury's store is not the first item on the agenda, moreover the stadium development itself. I am not going to put an absolute time frame to commencement on site but to know we are engaged with contractors will tell you that we are advanced.


When we do eventually put a spade in the ground we will of course have a ground breaking ceremony and I am also planning a video diary on the Club's website that everyone will be able to tap into.


I am not pretending that we have arrived but I do feel there has been great advancement over the past few months and weeks and I continue to keep a lot of personnel in the property together with the construction sector very busy at a time when there is not a lot of activity.


Still, for the moment, we can all have a rest from footie save for looking forward to watching the play offs and each deciding who we would prefer to see promoted or relegated. There has been a voice in the past that has said away with the play offs, but personally I feel that whilst they bring ecstasy and agony in doing so the play offs create a pinnacle to the season. In recent years Southend has experienced both and I know which I prefer!


He ended by wishing everybody involved in exams at this tough time of year the best of luck, TLG would like to echo that.