ARE these hoardings the surest sign yet that Southend United is gearing up for its long-anticipated move from Roots Hall to Fossetts Farm?

The navy boardings, clearly stamped with club’s logo, have suddenly sprung up around Fossetts Farm, sparking widespread speculation that work will soon start.

The club has been planning a move to Fossetts Farm for 15 years and last month trade magazine Property Week said it is expected to submit a reviewed planning application to Southend Council this month.

The club was staying tightlipped, but John Lamb, the deputy leader of Southend Council, is convinced the hoardings are a sure sign the club is almost ready for its big move.

He said: “I am really hopeful this means the application is nearly ready. I would like to see them make a start on it as soon as they can.

"It would mean that the investment into that area has started which would be a good thing for the town as a whole.

“It would be great if we could get it moving and it could start to push forward. Once the new stadium is built it will release the old stadium for housing.”

Mr Lamb believes the new site will be of great benefit to the town as it will bring more visitors - but is concerned it may affect trade in the town’s high street.

He said: “We want people to come to the high street as well and the seafront. We don’t just want people to use out-of-town retail parks.”

Ann Holland, executive councillor for Culture, Tourism and the Economy, is also hopeful the hoardings mean business.

She said: “It’s all been such a very long time coming and it looks like it is getting bigger and bigger. “I think it will be exciting for the football club to grow.

“It’s an important part of the town and so many people support the football club so I wish it lots of success."

Alan Woolham, 45, of Eagle Way, Southend, added: “I’ve been a Blues fan all my life and I’ve been waiting so long for this stadium move, hopefully it’s happening!”

The new stadium is expected to include about 160 residential units built into the new north stand of the 21,000 seater stadium.

Plans also include 35 retail units, a 12-screen Cineworld, up to ten restaurants and 240 apartments.

The football club was unavailable for comment yesterday