Southend Uniteds New Ground

Southend United have been given the go ahead to build their exciting new home.

The 22,000 all seater stadium and mixed use development was approved by Southend Council after a successful public enquiry.

Hazel Blears MP was mindful to approve the application despite their being two unresolved planning issues that still need to be addressed.

The scheme which is based over 52 acres will take about 20 months to build and be ready for occupation in August 2010. Reports suggest that both Southend and Rochford councils threw their weight behind the application, which includes 67 flats, shops, restaurants and bars.

The funding for this £50m project will come from the sale of the existing ground to Sainsburys.