Swan admits slow going on club's future (From Redditch Advertiser)

Swan admits slow going on club's future

2:54pm Thursday 17th January 2013 in News

REDDITCH United chairman Chris Swan has said that talks with the Borough Council about possible ground improvements at the Valley Stadium are on-going.

Swan held a meeting with representatives from the council on Tuesday to discuss the next step for the club.

The chairman has stressed that the Evo-Stik Southern League club must either improve their own ground in order to accomadate the first team and a burgeoning youth team section.

Top of his wish list is a 3G pitch which would provide a surface capable of coping with poor weather conditions as well and able to generate new funds for the club.

However, no decision been made on any work as the council seek more information from Redditch.

The chairman said: “We are no further along, the talks were positive but Redditch Borough Council have asked for more information, which we will provide.

“This is my first time dealing in the public service but it’s clear that these things can take time.

“I still feel adamant that something needs to be done to help the club progress and a 3G pitch is very important.”

Swan is set to meet officials from the the Football Foundation next week about securing a grant to help for any possible improvements.

The millionaire property developer has also been concerned by the disruption to first team fixtures over the last two months as the playing surface at the Valley has been hit hard by rain and snow.

With a host of home games called off the club’s cash flow has been stifled, with Swan having to put extra cash into United.

Swan has been keen for the club to pay for itself and he sees modern facilities as an important step in that direction.