JUST what is the obsession with building Grimsby Town's new stadium on the docks?, writes deputy sports editor Lee Jones
One person after the next seems to be lining up to extol the virtues of the site as the 'ideal' location for the Mariners.
And, yes, it would be a fantastic opportunity to regenerate the area and avoid upsetting too many local residents.
But, for me, it's just never going to happen, so why even go there?
The reason? Like most things in life – money.
In my understanding, the whole point of the proposed site off Peaks Parkway is that it would be linked to an accompanying retail outlet or park, which would help fund the stadium.
Without that backing – given that this country is still on its knees financially (despite apparently coming out of recession this week) – I can't see where the money would come from.
If there were millions of pounds in the GTFC bank account the new stadium scheme would have been well underway by now.
I heard the figure of £14-million bandied around as the cost of the project when it looked all set for Great Coates.
Without an extremely wealthy owner behind the scenes or a retail partner, that might as well be £14-billion.
In terms of the benefits to the developer or retailer – having the local football club on board and bringing a 'community element' to the project won't do any harm in terms of gaining planning permission – just ask the likes of MK Dons.
They (Wimbledon as they were then) upped sticks and moved the best part of 60 miles to link up with a retail outlet and get their new ground on the cheap.
I'm not suggesting that Peaks Parkway is the only viable option by any means.
But the proposed site has to be in an area attractive to retail developers – that's the reality and anything else is just a pipe dream.
Tell us your views by commenting on this story on our website at: www.thisisgrimsby.co.uk/sport.
