markysimmo
Johnny nice-tits
https://www.thstofficial.com/thst-news/thstthfc-board-to-board-meeting-minutes
Thursday 20 November 2014
Tottenham Hotspur, Hotspur Way, Enfield, EN2 9AP
18:00 to 21:45
THST
Katrina Law, Secretary
Adam Bailey, Treasurer
Ellie Kershaw
Suraj Sharma
Paul Head
Martin Cloake
Apologies: Darren Howlett, Chairman
THFC
Daniel Levy, Chairman
Donna Cullen, Executive Director
Sue Tilling, Safety Officer
Ian Murphy, Head of Ticketing & Membership
Jonathan Waite, Customer Service & SLO
Opening
THST opened up the meeting by thanking THFC for their time and reaffirming it had been a difficult few weeks for those connected with the Club
There were definite issues with communications and transparency between the Club and their supporters resulting in mistrust and anger. Fans felt they were being kept in the dark on key issues
The growing disconnect between the fan base and the Club was also flagged with THST being told repeatedly that fans have never felt as distant from the Club as they do now
THST stressed that this was an opportunity for THFC to get their message across in a constructive way
THST acknowledged that this was a high profile meeting and stressed we will be reporting back to our members and the wider fan base
Off the record conversations were off limits as THST had to abide by the transparency called for from THFC
THFC responded that it was pleased the meeting was happening at this time and would seek to answer questions as fully as possible. The agenda for the meeting had been shaped by questions from members
1. Stadium/ Northumberland Development Project
THFC had prepared a detailed presentation for this agenda point, which was discussed at length
The magnitude of this project was stressed. The last private sector stadium to be built in England was the Emirates. THFC said the challenge it faced was immense
There was an acknowledgment from THFC that a bigger stadium was absolutely crucial to help Spurs to move into the bracket occupied by the top 5. In terms of stadium size, WHL is the 10th largest in the Premier League. In terms of revenue, THFC currently rank 6th in the Premier League with the 6th highest wage bill. Of the largest 20 clubs in the world, THFC has the smallest stadium
The impact of Financial Fair Play means that revenues have to be increased in order to compete regularly. As an illustration, THFC’s match day revenue currently stand at £1m compared to Arsenal’s £3m, so the need to build a larger capacity stadium was clear
Regarding the outstanding CPO on Archway Steel, THFC said all efforts had been made to reach agreement with the Josif family over the past 12 years. Deals had been agreed only for them to be rejected at the last minute. Their intention was to cause delay. The Club said it has relocated over 70 businesses amicably but has been unable to accommodate Archway. Archway were now challenging the legality of the CPO in order to cause further delay. The High Court appeal is scheduled for 15/16 January 2015
THST questioned whether the amount of money needed to buy out Archway Steel was significant when considered against the effect of delays and loss of revenue that failure to reach agreement had caused. THFC reiterated that this was not a straightforward matter of paying an excessive amount
THST questioned why WHL couldn’t be redeveloped to increase capacity. THFC confirmed that this option had been explored. Reasons for rejecting it included the fact that the maximum capacity for a redeveloped WHL would only be 40,000. Construction would take 3-4 seasons with capacity reduced by 8,000 seats during the build phase. There were further restrictions owing to the proximity of the stadium to surrounding roads etc. It was too small an increase in capacity (4,000), compromised size and did not justify the cost or satisfy the need for a greater capacity
THFC referenced a consultation undertaken in 2008 where redevelopment of the existing stadium was effectively ruled out
THST asked for clarity on why it appeared to be no longer possible to play at WHL during construction of the new stadium, as indicated in the plans approved by Haringey Council in 2010
Many reasons were cited with the most material being the level of risk associated with construction and the length of the build programme which would impact on banks’ confidence in the project. When the project was originally proposed in 2007, banks were less risk averse. The recession had resulted in banks becoming more risk averse
THFC stressed that moving away for a season was not a cheap or easy option – in part because of rent costs associated with sharing a stadium - and was not something they wanted to do. But the Club felt it has to move
THST voiced concerns over the current mood of the local community, where support for the NDP has been replaced by confusion, an element of mistrust and worry. THFC stressed their commitment to the N17 community and were in agreement with 7 out of 10 points on the Our Tottenham group’s charter
THST questioned the Section 106 agreements post the Olympic Stadium bid. THFC reaffirmed their commitment to the community, not only through the 75 projects run by the Foundation, but also with the provision of education (new University Technical College, primary school, university degrees through the Foundation) and employment support and creation
It was also stressed that the High Road West regeneration (station and walkway) was a Haringey Council scheme and not a THFC initiative. It was agreed that further discussion around this was needed. The Club had responded to the consultation being run by the Council
THFC indicated that the impact to local traders of moving out for a season would be mitigated by the hundreds of construction workers on site 7 days a week, hence footfall would be greater than it is currently
The Club has used the time during the CPO process to continually review and consider improvements to the design of the stadium but has made no decision on whether to seek to make any changes to the permitted plans and would consult as always should the need arise
There was an acknowledgement from THFC that communications could have been better regarding the stadium. There was an element of them being ‘too close’ to the project and a level of presumed knowledge. That was recognised as a misjudgement. The Club reiterated that it always sought to provide as much information as possible but would ensure going forward that it would not assume existing knowledge and would make the fullest possible statements. The Club stressed that it always acted in the best interests of THFC and was prepared to take criticism for not communicating if indeed to do so would compromise the Club’s best interests. It hoped that fans would understand this
There was an acknowledgement from THST that there were inevitably commercial sensitivities that would mean it was not possible to share information as fully as the Trust would like, but that there was a strong feeling that ‘commercial sensitivity’ had been used too readily in the past. THST reiterated it was not its intention to create problems for a development fans supported
2. Ground share
Having covered the reasoning for needing to move away from WHL for a season, THFC outlined the options for alternative venues. These were Upton Park, Olympic Stadium, Wembley and Stadium MK
Discussions are at various levels with stadium owners
THST reiterated their opposition to a move to Stadium MK, a stance based on location, travel costs, loss of club identity and association with franchise football
THFC stressed the need to keep all options open at this time
THST asked for assurances fans would be fully consulted once discussions had progressed
THST also requested a Season Ticket amnesty during any period away from WHL and THFC confirmed this was being explored, along with assisted travel packages
There was a recognition that a ground share was far from ideal, and that if you’re a Tottenham fan, you want to stay in Tottenham
THST asked for reassurances any period away from WHL would be for one season only. THFC confirmed that this is the plan whilst acknowledging that delays could occur with a construction project of this size
3. Club blueprint/ vision
THFC had again prepared visuals to explain their philosophy and aims, which were to establish THFC as one of the world’s leading clubs distinguished by success on the pitch, a large and loyal fan base and a sustainable business off field
THST asked for ENIC’s long term commitment to THFC, as further takeover rumours had been circulating. There was confirmation that no talks were on-going and ENIC were not seeking interests, having been here for 14 years already. However, given the wider shareholder base there was a duty to consider should anything arise
Again, FFP was referenced and THST flagged the need for further information to be given to fans on this area, where there was a belief this wouldn’t be implemented and there were loop holes that could be exploited. THFC stressed both the PL and UEFA had FFP rules and there was little scope to manoeuvre here
In terms of short term strategy, THFC explained that funds were available at the end of the season to spend on players. Obviously, should the Club progress in various cup competitions or finish higher up the league, this amount would increase, along with any other monies from player trading
This meant development of younger players through the academy and projects such as the new stadium was vital in order to compete
THFC stated £180m net had been spent on players in the past 13 years, along with £110m on the NDP and £60m on the Training Centre. Once again it was underlined how critical the new stadium was to the future ambitions of the Club
4. Club structure/ player recruitment strategy
Relating to the Director of Football role, THFC pointed to Southampton, Emirates Marketing Project and Chelsea all working to this model
THFC confirmed that player recruitment was a collaborative process where the Head Coach would identify the positions where cover was needed. The D of F and scouting team would then provide names from which the Head Coach would make his final choice
THST raised the recent appointment of Paul Mitchell from Southampton. THFC declined to comment as Mr Mitchell remained a Southampton employee at this point in time
THST questioned the balance of players being purchased. Successful teams in the past had had a mix of flair players and uncompromising, gritty players. The latter was, in THST’s opinion, lacking at present
There was backing for Mauricio Pochettino from both THST members and THFC, who felt confident in his ability as a coach and one who believed in the philosophy of the Club
THFC referenced it was early days for Pochettino. The summer had been truncated by the World Cup and it would take time to establish his style of play
Owing to the meeting taking place mid season, THFC were cautious of commenting on matters on field, a stance which THST respected
5. Ticketing
THST acknowledged the freeze on ST and match day prices for this season but expressed disappointment that the price points that could be moved, had been i.e. cup games
The 25% increase in UEL pricing was raised by THST as a factor in lower attendances this season. THST sought assurances that this would be taken into consideration when agreeing pricing for the rounds of 32 and 16, should Spurs progress, and for next season’s UEL matches, should Spurs qualify
THFC confirmed this had been heard and would be considered, while making the point that ticket pricing was not the only factor affecting attendances
THST also asked for all Gold and Platinum members to be emailed in advance of autopay runs for cup games. This was agreed by THFC
THST also raised booking fees, in particular on Multi Game Packages, where the charging of booking fees per game was felt to be grossly unfair. THFC confirmed talks are underway with Ticketmaster and booking fees would be discusse
THST reiterated their position on the StubHub partnership, which is opposed on the grounds that a resale facility should be a service and not a revenue generator. THST urged THFC not to renew the contract, which is due to expire in May 2015 and confirmed they are in discussions with providers around an ethical exchange scheme, which will be passed onto the Club
THFC stated that the StubHub deal was a commercial one and that commercial revenue was vital owing to FFP, but they would review. The amendments in respect of flipping and pricing levels were acknowledged as positive outcomes of the dialogue
6. Real Madrid Partnership
THST asked THFC to clarify the details of the special relationship and how this benefitted Tottenham
THFC explained how the original partnership had revolved around access to younger players. This required buy in and co-operation between both sets of coaching staff, which hadn’t transpired
There had been an exchange of information on the marketing and commercial side previously
DL maintained a good relationship with President Perez and this conversation may be reopened in the future
THFC confirmed that in terms of tangible benefits, the partnership was not active
7. AOB
THST flagged the frequency of Sunday 1.30pm kick offs and questioned whether this was down to managerial choice. THFC stated that kick off times were solely down to TV scheduling both in the UK and globally and this would be discussed with BT Sport, Sky and other broadcasters shortly
The decline in atmosphere was discussed. THST confirmed the surfing flag was due for imminent delivery. There was backing from the THFC Board for the Drum, which had returned for the Asteras match and was also welcomed at COC matches, alongside UEL games
THST stressed that the crowd needed a spark on field to react to as much as the players needed crowd support. Whilst booing during a match or singling out an individual player was felt to be counter-productive, THST defended the fans’ right to express dissatisfaction at the final whistle
THST stated that fans don’t boo losing. They boo the manner of the performance
THFC acknowledged that full capacity stadiums were needed to create a good atmosphere also
Questions were raised by THST around THFC’s flag policy and, in particular, the removal of the #LevyOut protest banner at the Stoke City match. THFC stated this had caused disagreement amongst fans with contrary views who did not agree with the banner and had thus been removed. THST questioned this as a legitimate reason, drawing attention to protests articulated by other fans at other clubs without significant conflict breaking out and putting the view that fans had a right to express their opinions. THFC maintained its position that the guiding principle was removing anything which caused an issue in the stands
THST suggested THFC better articulate their flag policy as there was confusion around this. THFC reiterated their policy of refusing entry to any flags of a political or religious nature or anything with content likely to cause offence. Their opinion being watching football should be about supporting the team as opposed to displaying political affinities
THST asked a member’s question around Benoit Assou-Ekotto. THFC confirmed he was still under contract and remained on the payroll. He was not training with the first team and is not included in the 25 man squad for this season
THST asked whether THFC would consider organising a testimonial for Michael Dawson. This is something we’re pleased to report is being discussed
The meeting concluded at 9.45pm.
Appendix
A Selection of slides presented to THST.
Picture
Picture
WHITE HART LANE REDEVELOPMENT
Reasons redevelopment of existing stadium was ruled out
Final Capacity cannot exceed 40,000
Non UEFA size pitch in final stadium
Costly phased construction over 3 to 4 seasons
Reductions in capacity during construction (at least 8,000)
Significant construction costs for limited growth
Small increase not a game changer for club ambitions
Rationale for moving out for one season
A phased handover had been originally planned in order to avoid the necessity to move away for one season. This has been exhaustively reviewed and reconsidered.
The Club has been working hard to deliver a new stadium which will be a best in class supporter experience and exceptional home ground for the team. Given the choice of playing in a half-built stadium (WHL with one stand removed, new stadium with one stand incomplete), or playing in a different stadium for one whole season, the coaching staff were firmly of the opinion that they would prefer to move away and have good facilities, good atmosphere and consistent surroundings.
A further, key concern, and one which has arisen and increased with time, is the associated risk that the phased construction represents. It is an ambitious and largely untried build programme that was borne out of our over-riding desire to remain at the Lane whilst the new stadium was built. We would be a rare example of a new stadium being built on the same site.
In our discussions on optimum financing packages it has become clear that banks, who are far more risk averse now than they might have been 5 years ago, consider the risks associated with the phased building scheme to be high.
The decision was not taken lightly and has been taken in the interests of delivering the stadium in a timely , secure manner. We understand that it will cause inconvenience and difficulties for some supporters, but we hope that it is considered worth while given the end product we all desire – our own, world class new stadium on the site of our original home in Tottenham
Thursday 20 November 2014
Tottenham Hotspur, Hotspur Way, Enfield, EN2 9AP
18:00 to 21:45
THST
Katrina Law, Secretary
Adam Bailey, Treasurer
Ellie Kershaw
Suraj Sharma
Paul Head
Martin Cloake
Apologies: Darren Howlett, Chairman
THFC
Daniel Levy, Chairman
Donna Cullen, Executive Director
Sue Tilling, Safety Officer
Ian Murphy, Head of Ticketing & Membership
Jonathan Waite, Customer Service & SLO
Opening
THST opened up the meeting by thanking THFC for their time and reaffirming it had been a difficult few weeks for those connected with the Club
There were definite issues with communications and transparency between the Club and their supporters resulting in mistrust and anger. Fans felt they were being kept in the dark on key issues
The growing disconnect between the fan base and the Club was also flagged with THST being told repeatedly that fans have never felt as distant from the Club as they do now
THST stressed that this was an opportunity for THFC to get their message across in a constructive way
THST acknowledged that this was a high profile meeting and stressed we will be reporting back to our members and the wider fan base
Off the record conversations were off limits as THST had to abide by the transparency called for from THFC
THFC responded that it was pleased the meeting was happening at this time and would seek to answer questions as fully as possible. The agenda for the meeting had been shaped by questions from members
1. Stadium/ Northumberland Development Project
THFC had prepared a detailed presentation for this agenda point, which was discussed at length
The magnitude of this project was stressed. The last private sector stadium to be built in England was the Emirates. THFC said the challenge it faced was immense
There was an acknowledgment from THFC that a bigger stadium was absolutely crucial to help Spurs to move into the bracket occupied by the top 5. In terms of stadium size, WHL is the 10th largest in the Premier League. In terms of revenue, THFC currently rank 6th in the Premier League with the 6th highest wage bill. Of the largest 20 clubs in the world, THFC has the smallest stadium
The impact of Financial Fair Play means that revenues have to be increased in order to compete regularly. As an illustration, THFC’s match day revenue currently stand at £1m compared to Arsenal’s £3m, so the need to build a larger capacity stadium was clear
Regarding the outstanding CPO on Archway Steel, THFC said all efforts had been made to reach agreement with the Josif family over the past 12 years. Deals had been agreed only for them to be rejected at the last minute. Their intention was to cause delay. The Club said it has relocated over 70 businesses amicably but has been unable to accommodate Archway. Archway were now challenging the legality of the CPO in order to cause further delay. The High Court appeal is scheduled for 15/16 January 2015
THST questioned whether the amount of money needed to buy out Archway Steel was significant when considered against the effect of delays and loss of revenue that failure to reach agreement had caused. THFC reiterated that this was not a straightforward matter of paying an excessive amount
THST questioned why WHL couldn’t be redeveloped to increase capacity. THFC confirmed that this option had been explored. Reasons for rejecting it included the fact that the maximum capacity for a redeveloped WHL would only be 40,000. Construction would take 3-4 seasons with capacity reduced by 8,000 seats during the build phase. There were further restrictions owing to the proximity of the stadium to surrounding roads etc. It was too small an increase in capacity (4,000), compromised size and did not justify the cost or satisfy the need for a greater capacity
THFC referenced a consultation undertaken in 2008 where redevelopment of the existing stadium was effectively ruled out
THST asked for clarity on why it appeared to be no longer possible to play at WHL during construction of the new stadium, as indicated in the plans approved by Haringey Council in 2010
Many reasons were cited with the most material being the level of risk associated with construction and the length of the build programme which would impact on banks’ confidence in the project. When the project was originally proposed in 2007, banks were less risk averse. The recession had resulted in banks becoming more risk averse
THFC stressed that moving away for a season was not a cheap or easy option – in part because of rent costs associated with sharing a stadium - and was not something they wanted to do. But the Club felt it has to move
THST voiced concerns over the current mood of the local community, where support for the NDP has been replaced by confusion, an element of mistrust and worry. THFC stressed their commitment to the N17 community and were in agreement with 7 out of 10 points on the Our Tottenham group’s charter
THST questioned the Section 106 agreements post the Olympic Stadium bid. THFC reaffirmed their commitment to the community, not only through the 75 projects run by the Foundation, but also with the provision of education (new University Technical College, primary school, university degrees through the Foundation) and employment support and creation
It was also stressed that the High Road West regeneration (station and walkway) was a Haringey Council scheme and not a THFC initiative. It was agreed that further discussion around this was needed. The Club had responded to the consultation being run by the Council
THFC indicated that the impact to local traders of moving out for a season would be mitigated by the hundreds of construction workers on site 7 days a week, hence footfall would be greater than it is currently
The Club has used the time during the CPO process to continually review and consider improvements to the design of the stadium but has made no decision on whether to seek to make any changes to the permitted plans and would consult as always should the need arise
There was an acknowledgement from THFC that communications could have been better regarding the stadium. There was an element of them being ‘too close’ to the project and a level of presumed knowledge. That was recognised as a misjudgement. The Club reiterated that it always sought to provide as much information as possible but would ensure going forward that it would not assume existing knowledge and would make the fullest possible statements. The Club stressed that it always acted in the best interests of THFC and was prepared to take criticism for not communicating if indeed to do so would compromise the Club’s best interests. It hoped that fans would understand this
There was an acknowledgement from THST that there were inevitably commercial sensitivities that would mean it was not possible to share information as fully as the Trust would like, but that there was a strong feeling that ‘commercial sensitivity’ had been used too readily in the past. THST reiterated it was not its intention to create problems for a development fans supported
2. Ground share
Having covered the reasoning for needing to move away from WHL for a season, THFC outlined the options for alternative venues. These were Upton Park, Olympic Stadium, Wembley and Stadium MK
Discussions are at various levels with stadium owners
THST reiterated their opposition to a move to Stadium MK, a stance based on location, travel costs, loss of club identity and association with franchise football
THFC stressed the need to keep all options open at this time
THST asked for assurances fans would be fully consulted once discussions had progressed
THST also requested a Season Ticket amnesty during any period away from WHL and THFC confirmed this was being explored, along with assisted travel packages
There was a recognition that a ground share was far from ideal, and that if you’re a Tottenham fan, you want to stay in Tottenham
THST asked for reassurances any period away from WHL would be for one season only. THFC confirmed that this is the plan whilst acknowledging that delays could occur with a construction project of this size
3. Club blueprint/ vision
THFC had again prepared visuals to explain their philosophy and aims, which were to establish THFC as one of the world’s leading clubs distinguished by success on the pitch, a large and loyal fan base and a sustainable business off field
THST asked for ENIC’s long term commitment to THFC, as further takeover rumours had been circulating. There was confirmation that no talks were on-going and ENIC were not seeking interests, having been here for 14 years already. However, given the wider shareholder base there was a duty to consider should anything arise
Again, FFP was referenced and THST flagged the need for further information to be given to fans on this area, where there was a belief this wouldn’t be implemented and there were loop holes that could be exploited. THFC stressed both the PL and UEFA had FFP rules and there was little scope to manoeuvre here
In terms of short term strategy, THFC explained that funds were available at the end of the season to spend on players. Obviously, should the Club progress in various cup competitions or finish higher up the league, this amount would increase, along with any other monies from player trading
This meant development of younger players through the academy and projects such as the new stadium was vital in order to compete
THFC stated £180m net had been spent on players in the past 13 years, along with £110m on the NDP and £60m on the Training Centre. Once again it was underlined how critical the new stadium was to the future ambitions of the Club
4. Club structure/ player recruitment strategy
Relating to the Director of Football role, THFC pointed to Southampton, Emirates Marketing Project and Chelsea all working to this model
THFC confirmed that player recruitment was a collaborative process where the Head Coach would identify the positions where cover was needed. The D of F and scouting team would then provide names from which the Head Coach would make his final choice
THST raised the recent appointment of Paul Mitchell from Southampton. THFC declined to comment as Mr Mitchell remained a Southampton employee at this point in time
THST questioned the balance of players being purchased. Successful teams in the past had had a mix of flair players and uncompromising, gritty players. The latter was, in THST’s opinion, lacking at present
There was backing for Mauricio Pochettino from both THST members and THFC, who felt confident in his ability as a coach and one who believed in the philosophy of the Club
THFC referenced it was early days for Pochettino. The summer had been truncated by the World Cup and it would take time to establish his style of play
Owing to the meeting taking place mid season, THFC were cautious of commenting on matters on field, a stance which THST respected
5. Ticketing
THST acknowledged the freeze on ST and match day prices for this season but expressed disappointment that the price points that could be moved, had been i.e. cup games
The 25% increase in UEL pricing was raised by THST as a factor in lower attendances this season. THST sought assurances that this would be taken into consideration when agreeing pricing for the rounds of 32 and 16, should Spurs progress, and for next season’s UEL matches, should Spurs qualify
THFC confirmed this had been heard and would be considered, while making the point that ticket pricing was not the only factor affecting attendances
THST also asked for all Gold and Platinum members to be emailed in advance of autopay runs for cup games. This was agreed by THFC
THST also raised booking fees, in particular on Multi Game Packages, where the charging of booking fees per game was felt to be grossly unfair. THFC confirmed talks are underway with Ticketmaster and booking fees would be discusse
THST reiterated their position on the StubHub partnership, which is opposed on the grounds that a resale facility should be a service and not a revenue generator. THST urged THFC not to renew the contract, which is due to expire in May 2015 and confirmed they are in discussions with providers around an ethical exchange scheme, which will be passed onto the Club
THFC stated that the StubHub deal was a commercial one and that commercial revenue was vital owing to FFP, but they would review. The amendments in respect of flipping and pricing levels were acknowledged as positive outcomes of the dialogue
6. Real Madrid Partnership
THST asked THFC to clarify the details of the special relationship and how this benefitted Tottenham
THFC explained how the original partnership had revolved around access to younger players. This required buy in and co-operation between both sets of coaching staff, which hadn’t transpired
There had been an exchange of information on the marketing and commercial side previously
DL maintained a good relationship with President Perez and this conversation may be reopened in the future
THFC confirmed that in terms of tangible benefits, the partnership was not active
7. AOB
THST flagged the frequency of Sunday 1.30pm kick offs and questioned whether this was down to managerial choice. THFC stated that kick off times were solely down to TV scheduling both in the UK and globally and this would be discussed with BT Sport, Sky and other broadcasters shortly
The decline in atmosphere was discussed. THST confirmed the surfing flag was due for imminent delivery. There was backing from the THFC Board for the Drum, which had returned for the Asteras match and was also welcomed at COC matches, alongside UEL games
THST stressed that the crowd needed a spark on field to react to as much as the players needed crowd support. Whilst booing during a match or singling out an individual player was felt to be counter-productive, THST defended the fans’ right to express dissatisfaction at the final whistle
THST stated that fans don’t boo losing. They boo the manner of the performance
THFC acknowledged that full capacity stadiums were needed to create a good atmosphere also
Questions were raised by THST around THFC’s flag policy and, in particular, the removal of the #LevyOut protest banner at the Stoke City match. THFC stated this had caused disagreement amongst fans with contrary views who did not agree with the banner and had thus been removed. THST questioned this as a legitimate reason, drawing attention to protests articulated by other fans at other clubs without significant conflict breaking out and putting the view that fans had a right to express their opinions. THFC maintained its position that the guiding principle was removing anything which caused an issue in the stands
THST suggested THFC better articulate their flag policy as there was confusion around this. THFC reiterated their policy of refusing entry to any flags of a political or religious nature or anything with content likely to cause offence. Their opinion being watching football should be about supporting the team as opposed to displaying political affinities
THST asked a member’s question around Benoit Assou-Ekotto. THFC confirmed he was still under contract and remained on the payroll. He was not training with the first team and is not included in the 25 man squad for this season
THST asked whether THFC would consider organising a testimonial for Michael Dawson. This is something we’re pleased to report is being discussed
The meeting concluded at 9.45pm.
Appendix
A Selection of slides presented to THST.
Picture
Picture
WHITE HART LANE REDEVELOPMENT
Reasons redevelopment of existing stadium was ruled out
Final Capacity cannot exceed 40,000
Non UEFA size pitch in final stadium
Costly phased construction over 3 to 4 seasons
Reductions in capacity during construction (at least 8,000)
Significant construction costs for limited growth
Small increase not a game changer for club ambitions
Rationale for moving out for one season
A phased handover had been originally planned in order to avoid the necessity to move away for one season. This has been exhaustively reviewed and reconsidered.
The Club has been working hard to deliver a new stadium which will be a best in class supporter experience and exceptional home ground for the team. Given the choice of playing in a half-built stadium (WHL with one stand removed, new stadium with one stand incomplete), or playing in a different stadium for one whole season, the coaching staff were firmly of the opinion that they would prefer to move away and have good facilities, good atmosphere and consistent surroundings.
A further, key concern, and one which has arisen and increased with time, is the associated risk that the phased construction represents. It is an ambitious and largely untried build programme that was borne out of our over-riding desire to remain at the Lane whilst the new stadium was built. We would be a rare example of a new stadium being built on the same site.
In our discussions on optimum financing packages it has become clear that banks, who are far more risk averse now than they might have been 5 years ago, consider the risks associated with the phased building scheme to be high.
The decision was not taken lightly and has been taken in the interests of delivering the stadium in a timely , secure manner. We understand that it will cause inconvenience and difficulties for some supporters, but we hope that it is considered worth while given the end product we all desire – our own, world class new stadium on the site of our original home in Tottenham
