Southend United group write to council demanding answers

Southend Council has been carrying out a “due diligence” process since contracts were exchanged between Ron Martin and the new consortium in December.

In order for the deal to be completed, the council must sign off on plans for 1,300 homes at Fossetts Farm, where a new stadium was initially planned.

Yesterday, the Southend Fan Protest Group wrote to the council calling for answers to a series of questions, including if a deadline is in place for due diligence and how much the process is costing the taxpayers of the city.

Daniel Cowan, new Labour leader of the council, promised to be “open and transparent” with the fans and was locked in a meeting with Southend Council officers yesterday evening as he attempted to answer their questions.

At the same time, Justin Rees who is leading the consortium issued a statement insisting they will not walk away from the club but warning the consortium will not continue to pump cash into the Shrimpers without owning the club.

Speaking yesterday afternoon, Mr Cowan said: “I believe it is entirely reasonable for the consortium and fans to want answers to their questions about what is happening. All I can say is moving forward I will be open and transparent, and if there is an update to give, I will give fans that update.

“My assurance I can give fans is any news, whatever the news is, if that is there is a hold up, or the due diligence will be done on a certain date, we will be transparent to ensure fans know where things are at, and when they are progressing.

“No one will be sitting on their hands and will be doing all we can to make it happen.”

Just last week, a “final” six-week adjournment of Southend United’s winding up petition was granted, following a request from the club Stewarts Law announced.

As a result, the club is facing a race against time to clear its debt or face being struck-off.