SW11_Saint

Well if you read the Renaissance prospectus, they were seeking investment from the private sector. That’s how all commercial developments happen. Not sure who has shown concrete interest, but I understand there is interest. So funding is not all down to SFC or SCC. The rail link, if it happens, is using existing infrastructure - the train line runs right behind the Kingsland stand, so by far the easiest way to implement it.

Mainly the former I’d say and some bad advice. A decade on, I’m not sure why people are still so exorcised about it. Time to move on. The club clearly think he has something to offer, and that’s fine with me. Good luck to him. And I hope his lad is as good as he was!

I swear I read a reference to it (the arena stuff), but can’t find. Wider plans are in the links above. I do know the original housing plan for the gasworks site isn’t going ahead.

It isn’t built yet. So doesn’t need to be ‘knocked down’…

Not sure, just something I heard or read somewhere (though can’t find now!). The gasworks would make sense in some ways as parking at SMS could be utilised, and a bit closer to any train links they might come up with. If true, I’d be happy wherever they develop it! The city badly needs it.

I looked again and ABP are listed as a Partner in the Renaissance prospectus. Good news that they are involved and onboard. As you point out less of an issue for the area adjacent to SMS, but critical for the Town Quay plans.

Actually enhanced transport links are part of the Renaissance plan, and as I understand it that includes investigating a potential rail link to SMS.

I’m pretty sure they know what Dragan/the club does and doesn’t own. They aren’t buying any housing around the ground. It’s all either ‘wasteland’ already or commercial land where negotiations have already taken place.

Unfortunately, unlike other coastal cities, Southampton is at the mercy of ABP who have absolute power and control over all waterfront areas, via an act of Parliament. Pretty much means they can do what they want and they naturally try to gain commercially from all waterfront spaces. Case in point, when they demolished the beautiful and historic Rank Hovis building - the City Council, all city MPs, Heritage Associations and most citizens were against it. They did it anyway. It’s sister building in Gateshead is a beautiful & thriving arts centre (The Baltic Centre), putting aside the fact they retained an important architectural landmark. Anyway, it appears ABP are onboard with the current plans for the City. Massive plan to redevelop the Town Quay area too. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx2e972rrygo (Can’t see it referenced here, but look closely at the map - there appears to be another structure to the right of SMS) Town Quay development: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c51nzm1zm40o

Not sure he (or the club) own any of it atm - other than the areas immediately adjacent to the stadium, currently being used. The MOU sets out though that land around can be jointly developed by SFC & SCC. https://www.coliseum-online.com/st-marys-waterfront-pioneering-plans/

That plan fell through - latest is that site is earmarked for the proposed 15k indoor arena (concerts, conferences etc). Think it was referenced in the ‘memo of understanding’ between SFC & SCC, along with the development of the waterfront where the cement works is.

Perfect (other than the back, possibly). No idea why so many kit manufacturers find it so hard to develop designs like this.

P*mpey women have apparently disbanded their U23 team (effectively the reserves).

🤮

Brilliant. What a legend. And what a player. My first Saints😍!

Best squad pic ever. Likely our best squad ever too.

Would love us to sign Sargent.

I don’t have his looks or money, but have certainly been called worse! BTW I wrote an article for the programme (published in 2 parts) on that match, actually inspired by that photo (which originally appeared on the club website).

Renewed today. I mean, what else am I going to do on a Saturday (Sunday/Tuesday)…?!

You have no idea how funny that is… (assuming you are taking about who I think). That is me! 🤣

What was the story behind the black eye?! (and well done whoever gave him it!).

A moment…

It’s lot better than the reported real one…

Watching that ‘High Performance’ Pod, it was bugging me who Will’s demeanour reminded me of… especially the “They called and offered me the job. I said, “What?”…” parts (there were several). Then it came to me… (Comedian James Acaster for those who don’t know him…).

Classic👌. That with simple stripes, or even just a red sash would be superb.