Takeover talks: It’s in your hands
page ‘Safc Consort’: “We have taken on board the comments and issues the majority had with the offer, and we have changed it to reflect, what we feel, the fans want.
“Therefore following the retraction of our offer, we will amend the offer, and re-submit this to the Trust Board’s solicitors by the middle of next week.”
The meeting heard from Messrs Neill and Rowley on their plans for Stirling Albion which would see an initial investment of £350,000 plus £50,000 over the next five years.
If they get control, the group intends to “drive the club forward” and aims to secure promotion to Division One in four years and the Championship in eight years.
Other points the duo made at the meeting included introducing a club philosophy on playing to be applied throughout all levels; the possibility of acquiring Forthbank from Stirling Council and utilising revenue streams or working in a “profitshare” with the council if a new 3G/4G pitch is laid. That could lead to other sporting events taking place at the stadium along with concerts, etc.
Attempting to put the fans’ minds at rest on finance, the duo also pointed out that there would be a legal undertaking by the consortium never to take on any major debt in the club.
“If we fail,” said Mr Neill, “we lose £600,000. Not the club. We are the ones taking the risk.”
The consortium would put in place a new club board featuring Mr Neill and Mr Rowley plus business associates Derek Hamill, Susie Fraser and June Walker - and including two members from the supporters’ trust to represent the fans’ interests. Mr Neill would take over from current club chairman Stuart Brown, who was in the audience to hear the consortium’s plans.
One supporter asked the question: “Why Stirling Albion?”
Mr Neill replied: “A big part of it is having control. Stirling Albion has huge potential to progress and it’s a big opportunity to change Scottish football.”
Mr Rowley said: “We’re delighted with the response with more than 150 turning up to the meeting.
“Feedback on our Facebook page has been overwhelmingly positive and we’re excited about redrafting the offer as soon as possible.
“We would like to invite all fans to go to out Facebook page and read through our proposals and if they are interested, give us their support.”
We’re delighted with the response
Colin Rowley