Since our last home match, Christie Park has played host to a press conference at which we announced details of its sale to Sainsbury's who hope to build a new store here in 2010.
Whilst we have been delighted with the positive feedback since the announcement, it should be noted that we are ever conscious of the tradition of playing here, the impact of a new development upon the immediate area and the legacy of J B Christie. More of that later.
In the meantime it is important to recognise that, whilst we are officers for Morecambe Football Club Limited, we have to achieve what is best for this club. Sainsbury's have agreed to buy the land without planning permission and will pay us in advance so we have funds with which to build our new home, new businesses and new community development at Westgate.
Believe me, this is a great deal. We are firmly of the view that the experienced team at Sainsbury's recognise the concerns of local residents and businesses. I expect their consultation process now to do this and in the future I expect to see much wider community benefits if Sainsbury's can deliver a scheme which satisfies local residents and the planners. However, that is very much a matter for Sainsbury's and though we anticipate a long and fruitful relationship, we must now focus on our own development.
As for the tradition of Christie Park, I think most people recognise that our continued development depends on this move. We simply cannot deliver such a project here (we examined that possibility first and found that we would have increased debt as a result). I like grounds with individual character and Christie Park certainly has this but I genuinely believe we will all enjoy and appreciate the individual character of our new development in 2010 and for many years beyond.
As for Mr Christie, please be assured we have researched thoroughly and given great thought and sensitive consideration to his wishes. I have been asked many times regarding the "covenants" on the land here. The short answer is that there aren't any. The long answer is as follows: the land is held on trust subject to along lease to Morecambe FC (free of charge) the trust was created by a gift from Joseph Barnes Christie who sought to secure a place for Morecambe FC to play in the future. Mr Christie had bailed out the club many times and was concerned what would happen after he had gone. He bought the land in 1924 and gave it to the trustees in 1928, shortly before his death in1929.
His intention was to safeguard Morecambe F C, not specifically this particular piece of land. The move to Westgate includes a moving of the trust on the same terms as currently exist. It has been approved by Lancaster city Council, the Treasury Solicitors, the Secretary of State, the Charity Commissioners and finally the High Court last year. All are satisfied that we have put into effect (and beyond) the wishes of J B Christie and the purpose of his gift.
Suffice to say, we are delighted with the deal for the whole of Morecambe and now look forward to completing our second year in the Football League before entering our historic final year ever at Christie Park.
Enjoy the match and thanks for your support.
