THE Government’s Sports Minister visited Roots Hall to launch the Football Governance Bill in a bid to protect football clubs from the financial struggles teams like Southend United have faced. 

Sports Minister Stephanie Peacock joined Southend West and Leigh MP David Burton-Sampson and Southend Council leader Daniel Cowan alongside club head coach Kevin Maher and CEO Tom Lawrence on Friday. 

It comes as the Government launches a “strengthened” Football Governance Bill to create an independent regulator and ensure football clubs are managed in a sustainable way. 

Special - Roots Hall chosen as the location to launch the billSpecial - Roots Hall chosen as the location to launch the bill (Image: Newsquest)

Ms Peacock chose Roots Hall to launch the Bill after the financial woes Southend United have faced - including being repeatedly hauled in front of the courts - before being taken over by a new consortium led by businessman Justin Rees.

She said: “I am really pleased we have introduced the Football Governance Bill. It is great to be here. I know you have had a tough time here, and you welcome the Bill.

“We have put fans’ engagement at the heart of the Bill and we hope this new regulatory framework will prevent other clubs going through what Southend went through.”

The Bill will also include a mandate that clubs consult fans on key issues like ticket prices and relocation plans, helping ensure that community interests are safeguarded.

Mr Burton-Sampson said: “I am delighted that the minister is here to launch this important legislation. It sends a really positive message to the people of Southend.”

James Schooley, chair of the Shrimpers Trust, attended the launch and spoke to Ms Peacock. 

He told her: “We have been in and out of financial crises. We are a traditional club, deeply embedded in the community and we almost lost our club. This Bill will make people more accountable.”

Daniel Cowan, leader of Southend Council, added: “I am delighted that the minister chose to launch these important rules. Too many clubs have faced an existential crisis like Southend United did this summer.

“This bill will help protect football for our communities and give fans assurances that their clubs are well run and protected for future generations.”