THE leader of Southend Council has given an update on talks with Blues chairman Ron Martin after MP Anna Firth hit out over "unacceptable" delays to the takeover of the club.

The Southend West MP demanded answers over the agonising delays in the takeover of Southend United as the new consortium led by Justin Rees pumps thousands into the club - without actually owning it and despite agreeing heads of terms back in October.

The deal is being held up due to ongoing talks between Southend Council and Shrimpers chairman Ron Martin over revised plans for Fossetts Farm.

Those talks are expected to delay the consortium’s arrival for another six to eight weeks.

Council leader, Tony Cox said: “We’re looking to speedily resolve negotiations. I anticipate late March or early April at the latest.

“There is still a legal requirement for commercial sensitivity on any negotiations until they are completed. But due diligence is progressing well.

“Council group leaders were made aware of the current update by the chief executive two weeks ago.”

Ms Firth said at the weekend that she does not understand why talks could not have taken place sooner.

She said: “I completely understand that due process and planning procedure must be adhered to, however I remain perplexed as to why the costs of due diligence were only being worked out in January, and why they did not begin in earnest, when the deal was initially announced on October 23.”