SOUTHEND United’s football stadium could undergo a major revamp if a promised £20 million is released to the new owners.

In crunch meetings next week, plans for 1,400 homes at Fossetts Farm, which are closely linked with the sale of the club, will be decided.

The finance from the homes will enable Ron Martin to deliver a promised £20 million to the club to help the Roots Hall revamp.

Anna Firth, MP for Southend West, said: “Whilst all fans, including myself, would have liked this process to conclude sooner, due process cannot be rushed.

“It is no secret Roots Hall is certainly in need of some TLC, various parts could do with renovation and modernisation.

“I know the consortium have grand plans for the renovation and are looking forward to leaving a lasting legacy for the generations to come.”

Last summer, just a week before the 2023/24 season began, supporters rallied together to get Roots Hall ready for the start of the National League.

This was in a bid to ensure the Blues were awarded a safety certificate for the season.

Life-long Southend United fan, and former sponsor of the club, Lawrence Austin instigated the clean-up and is now eager to see Roots Hall brought up to standards.

He said: “Although we managed to get Roots Hall ‘ready’ at the beginning of the season, in reality it was a big band aid over the root problem. It was a case of making the most out of a situation that wouldn’t be sustainable going forward.

“There was zero budget that could be allocated towards getting Roots Hall ready. So rather than fixing problems it was a case of having to shut them down or skim over.

“The plan should be to renovate and bring up to standards Roots Hall as it is, seeing the toilets, bars and facilities improved to maximise revenue and game day experience for the club. On from that, tearing down the east stand to create a larger stand.

“It is important fans realise the consortium are initially here to help make Southend sustainable as a business.

“It is a big moment for the future of Southend United, but it has to be done correctly - no debts, creditors happy and getting the community behind Southend United Football Club.”