10thmar05

Margate plan for their first season back at Hartsdown

A site meeting took place earlier in the week to finalise the schedule of works and reinstatement at Hartsdown Park, writes Stephen McCartney.

All parties involved in the proposed works including the contractor, attended the meeting and the Nationwide Conference South club hope to release a copy of the agreed programme of works shortly to provide comfort to their supporters that can be ready for the start of next season.

In a statement on the club's website it read: "We remain hopeful that there will be the opportunity to arrange some pre-season friendlies before the start of the new season and several League clubs have been approached with this in mind.  Again the club will keep everyone informed with any developments.

"With regard to the release of funding, we can confirm that our landlords have consented to the assignment of our lease and the agreement is now only subject to signatures from all parties.  Whilst the assignment will release the funding for the reinstatement works, the club has one major creditor situation, which needs resolution prior to the release of funds for the embargo and other unpaid wages.  Negotiations are taking place as we speak to resolve this.  Funding for the reinstatement works will be provided in the form of a loan to the Hartsdown Development Company and it is important to note that should the wider redevelopment fail to go ahead this loan would have to be repaid by the Football Club."

Meanwhile, Margate will be issuing notice to its members for the Annual General Meeting, which will take place at Hartsdown Park on 30 March 2005.  It may also be considered to hold a Supporters' open meeting directly after the AGM, details of which will be advised later.

As soon as there is evidence of work commencing on site the club will start to rebuild its foundations.  The directors believe that this should start with the appointment of a commercial manager to re-sell the club into the community, preparing their income base for the new season.  Supporters are invited to contact the club should they have any details of anyone wishing to take up advertising opportunities of any kind for next season.

www.margate-fc.com

Hornchurch v Margate
Nationwide Conference South
Saturday 12th March 2005
Kick Off 3:00pm
at The Stadium, Bridge Avenue, Upminster, Essex