Stones chairman clears up stadium concerns

MAIDSTONE UNITED chairman Paul Bowden-Brown has sought to clear up the situation following the presentation of a petition to the council to contribute towards the new stadium at James Whatman Way.

Speaking to www.maidstoneunited.co.uk, Mr Bowden-Brown said, “I must acknowledge the efforts of those who organised the petition and thank everyone who signed it. I’ve never doubted the level of support out there and more than 2,200 names proves that the people want the club to return to the county town.

“The petition was done with the very best intentions when supporters learned of the funding which had been set aside for improvements to the High Street. It seems that this money has been ring fenced solely for this project and at these tough economic times, MBC does not have the spare cash to allocate to the football club – I know what it is like to be in that position at this current time. However this hasn’t in anyway diminished the leader of the borough council's enthusiasm and support for our aims, as has been confirmed during recent communications.

“I think everyone needs to remember the council loaned the club the money to purchase the lease for the site at Whatman Way, and that this money is guaranteed by myself as a director of the club. I have since that time always made the council aware of all the issues with regard to the delay and the subsequent consequences in starting work at Whatman Way.

“The leader and chief executive supported our application to the Football Foundation and I will be meeting with them soon to discuss the club’s circumstances and ways to move forward.

“While we're reflecting, let’s remember the efforts being made by the board, executive committee and fundraising committee to bring this club home. We really all need to pull together – I can’t tell how soul-destroying such negative, and at times spiteful, comments have on all those who give their timely freely for the club.

“I’ve offered individuals or groups the opportunity to purchase the club but to date no offer has been made. So it’s left to me to continue to personally finance the club on and off the pitch. I’ll do it but yet again I appeal to anyone out there to come in and take this fine club forward.

“To end on a positive note – Bill (Williams) and I have met with representatives from the MOD to see if they can do some work on the ground as part of a pre-tour training session. Obviously we are in their hands – but I’m hopeful – to get some serious work done will mean so much to me and many of you too. Keep the faith, keep the enthusiasm and let’s go forward together.”

Article courtesy of www.maidstoneunited.co.uk

Maidstone United v Harrow Borough
Ryman Premier League
Wednesday 4^th March 2009
Kick Off 7:45pm
At Bourne Park, Central Park, Eurolink, Church Road, Sittingbourne, Kent ME10 3SB