I am writing in response to the letter regarding the proposed stadium and related retail/housing development.

Paul Halley commented any council would be mad to pass the plans (Jan 15).

Obviously the plan is not without potential problems. However, as I understand it, even if the stadium did not go ahead the land will almost certainly be used for development anyway.

The additional crowds brought by the stadium will on average affect the area once a fortnight.

A successful football club puts a town on the map, which in itself encourages further investment meaning more jobs, prestige, and increased property values.

Reading is a prime example of this.

Southend has a chance to back its professional club and prove that for once it has a forward-thinking council.

If these plans do not go ahead I fear within ten years the club will be playing non-league local derbies against Billericay and Canvey, probably without a ground of their own.

Southend has water to the south and east, with almost total urbanisation into London to the west.

The land to the north is the only option left.

My message to the council is back the club or lose it. Work to overcome the problems along the way.

Be brave and continue the work you have started to bring Southend into the 21st century with a sporting facility to be proud of.

If towns like Colchester, Doncaster, Darlington, Milton Keynes can back their clubs, so can we.

Personally, I think the council would be mad if they let this opportunity slip away.

Robin Francis
The Bight
South Woodham Ferrers

. . .I sincerely hope Southend and Rochford Councils look favourably at the application by Southend United, as I believe this development will bring great benefits.

Much has been made of the retail outlets having an impact on Southend and Rochford businesses. But what this area needs is a good choice of retail outlet, so we can compete with the likes of Lakeside.

This proposal will assist people in our district to shop here.

If some people believe the refusal of this development will preserve that area, they are deluded.

If not this, then some other development will get the green light in due course.

In my opinion the development is impressive. The plans have tried to address issues of noise, traffic and other potential obstacles.

The stadium is a state-of -art design, and something of which the town could be truly proud.

Other councils, most recently Colchester, have realised the importance of such developments, so please don't let this opportunity slip through our collective grasp.

Phil Dangerfield
Crouch Meadow
Hullbridge