Southend considering new stadium development

Southend FC is putting together a planning application for the construction of a new 22,000-capacity stadium, aiming for completion by the start of the 2008 season.

The plans, which are being drawn up by club chair Ron Martin, would entail a move for the club to a nearby brownfield site at Fossetts Farm, are expected to go before Southend Council by the end of September, before facing a public consultation.

The new venue would cost in the region of £25m and would feature a hotel, restaurants and conference facilities to boost non-match day income.

The club has been promoted to the Championship – a key factor behind the proposals, said Martin: "We cannot compete in the Championship if we stay at Roots Hall – a 12,000 capacity stadium is insufficient.

"We also cannot provide the level of service that modern football demands. We will be sold out for most games this year, which is why we need to move."

The council is believed to be enthusiastic about the prospect of siting a new stadium on the Fossetts Farm site. A planning application was submitted for a 16,000-capacity venue, with adjoining training ground, in 2000, but was later withdrawn.