Fans’ trust lays out blueprint for Tranmere

A FANS’ trust which is campaigning to buy Tranmere Rovers from its owner, Peter Johnson, has said it will build a hotel and retail complex next to the club if it gains control.

The Tranmere Rovers Trust is planning an open meeting for fans before this weekend’s match with Exeter City at which its business plan will be unveiled.

This would involve a three-phase redevelopment of the Prenton Park stadium, with an initial upgrade followed by the new commercial development begind the Kop. A new supporters’ bar and club shop would also be included.

A third phase would involve a rebuilding of the ground’s 50 year-old main stand.

The not-for-profit Trust said it will make a formal presentation to Mr Johnson, who owns the publicly-listed Christmas savings firm Park Group, at the end of March ahead of submitting a formal bid to buy the club.

Trust chairman Ben Harrison said: “These forward-thinking plans are about protecting the future of Tranmere Rovers and establishing a financially viable, step-by-step approach to steadily growing the football club.

“We have already held informal discussions with architects and possible commercial partners who have expressed an interest in working with us, and have undertaken a lot of work to ensure our plans are financially sound and would provide a basis for the club to progress sensibly.

“This is about building a sustainable future for a community-led football club.  As well as ensuring that our plans are financially prudent, we would also put in place a firm foundation which guarantees supporters are at the very heart of their club.”