Blackfriars End - A lot going on but nothing to report

Hereford United chairman Graham Turner has said that progress on the Blackfriars End is slow.

"I spoke to the architect late last week and again on Monday. He's sending some revised plans over.

"Everything is not sorted out yet with the Richardsons who are our Landlords."

Turner explained that the hold up is due to trying to get plans together that suit all parties.

"Ours has come up with plans that give as little as we can go to in terms of giving any ground. I'm hoping it will progress from here. I think the next seven to ten days are crucial.

"Behind the scenes there is a lot going on but basically there's nothing to report."

Turner is still hopeful that the End will be re-built by the start of next season.

"The council are being very helpful so far. They've indicated that there should be no delays in getting the planning application (and the like) approved. There shouldn't be too many hold-ups in that area.

"We've got to go back to the Football Improvements Trust to make sure we get some grants for it.

"I'm still optimistic it will be for the start of next season. Bit pessimistic for the end of this season."

(Turner's quotes are from his latest interview on the OS)

Meanwhile the Herefordshire Council have issued a short statement on the Blackfriars End.

The Council is in discussion with the football club and the head lease holders (Formsole) to consider the potential to redevelop the Blackfriars end of the ground and to improve the general appearance of the ground. These discussions are still at an early stage, but are progressing satisfactorily at present.

Interesting to note that the Council have included the words 'improve the general appearance of the ground'.

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