Walsall to talk to Labour councillors

Walsall will hold talks with Labour councillors as they try to safeguard the future of the Banks's Stadium.

The ground is up for sale and the council have come under pressure to buy the land, after a campaign led by music producer and lifelong Walsall fan Steve Jenkins.

The local authority has rejected calls for them to make a offer, while Stratford-based businessman Geoff Dance has bid for the land, on the market for £5million.

Chairman Jeff Bonser is expected to attend tonight and Labour leader Tim Oliver wants to discuss how the party can help.

And chief executive Stefan Gamble, ahead of the behind-closed-doors meeting at 6.30pm at Walsall Town Hall, insists the Saddlers are "not looking for a handout."

He said: "The club is on a sound financial footing and is not looking for a handout.

"The point we will be emphasising is that the ongoing viability and success of the club is dependent upon it having a secure landlord.

"It is the view of the club that Walsall Council, who represent the entire community, are best placed to carry out this role.

"The occasion will give us the opportunity to explain to civic leaders that the proposal being put forward is solely related to the purchase of the freehold of Banks's Stadium and surrounding land.

"It is absolutely nothing to do with the ownership of Walsall Football Club, which will remain unaffected."

Promoted Peterborough and Premier League new-boys Swansea have council owned ground and Gamble insisted clubs and the local authorities can thrive together.

The council could take almost £500,000-a-year in rent from the Saddlers and would be able to have a low interest rate from any money loaned through the use of prudential borrowing.

Gamble said: "There is nothing unique in this concept. Over 20 Football League clubs have now formal arrangements with their local council, a clear indication of the value placed on having a professional football club in town.

"There is no cost to the local council tax payer if the deal goes ahead. Indeed, it is our understanding that a low interest government fund may be available for a community project of this nature.

"This is an unique investment opportunity. The Council would be acquiring an asset which would yield an annual profitable return.

"The meeting will give us the opportunity to explain to councillors the valuable work being undertaken by the Club in the local community and with local charities.

"This is as well as the important role we play in the local economy, employing over 300 local people, and attracting over 1.3million annual visitors to the stadium and the town."