The Society Board have carefully considered the refinancing proposal received from Richard Thompson and will be responding with its own proposals during the next few days.
The Thompson offer would enable Bees United to exercise its option to acquire control of Brentford FC and allow the club to remain at Griffin Park until May 2006. However, certain aspects of the offer are, in their current form, unacceptable and the board intends to continue negotiation over these.
The Board would also like to thank Ron Noades for his offer of help in trying to secure a deal which is acceptable to everyone and for his assurance that he is quite happy for Bees United to take over the club even after its present option expires at the end of this month.
We should also point out that Mr. Thompson’s offer is not the only one under consideration, but at present all other discussions are being held in confidence. With the club enjoying a slight improvement in its financial situation, along with the magnificent fund raising efforts of the supporters, we want to assure everyone there is no intention of rushing into a deal which is unsuitable.
We do recognise that the granting of planning permission at Griffin Park is key to the club’s financial future and have therefore convened a meeting with the club, supporters, residents, councillors and planners in an attempt to reach agreement on an application which is acceptable to everyone. In addition, the supporters groups are engaged in ongoing talks with Hounslow Council regarding the development of a new stadium in the area and this is being greatly aided by the work of Councillor Luke Kirton, who was elected in May with the express purpose of securing Brentford FC’s future in its own locality.
Bees United are confident that, with the right finance deal, a planning consent and a new stadium, Brentford FC can look forward to an exciting future.