| last night’s meeting on 07:33 - Mar 28 with 1190 views | janegallagher |
The choir’s sorted
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| last night’s meeting on 10:04 - Mar 28 with 1158 views | BringBackTheRedRoom |
Ticket prices, stadium configuration, the potential 12-point deduction and the number of interested buyers were among the topics discussed at the fans’ forum with Blackpool FC’s new board last night.
Board members Ben Hatton, Michael Bolingbroke, Ian Currie and Tim Fielding all attended the meeting at Rowley’s restaurant inside Bloomfield Road.
Around 50 supporters were in attendance, with all fan groups represented.
The board stressed the need for the club to attract gates upwards of 10,000 for the last four home games of the season.
But the headline news related to the potential 12-point deduction hanging over the club, with the board hoping to hear a decision from the EFL within the next 48 hours
The club has now provided the EFL with all of the information it needs and remains hopeful they will be able to avoid the sanction.
Any decision made after today means the points deduction will apply for next season rather than this campaign.
As it stands, the Seasiders being docked 12 points would leave them just two points above the relegation zone.
It was also revealed that more than 50 potential buyers have expressed an interest in purchasing the football club.
“We have a list of over 50 names,” consultant to the board Bolingbroke said.
“But that’s 50 people saying they want to potentially bid for the club, but none of them have seen the financial position.
“We hope that information goes out on Monday. Out of those 50 you’d probably see it whittled down to 20 or so.”
A fan in the audience raised the position of Valeri Belokon, whose lawyers indicated in the last court hearing that he would be willing to foot the bill of any shortfall in cash between now and the time new owners are in place.
“The receiver is in touch with Mr Belokon pretty regularly. We believe the club is self-sufficient without any added investment,” Bolingbroke added.
“He will be watching this process but his communication will be with the receiver Paul Cooper, not the board.
“Our job is to make sure that help isn’t necessary. If we get the attendances we feel we can get for the next four home games, it shouldn’t be a problem.
“We are convinced we can get through (the summer). But the receiver works quickly and his orders are from the court, so his job is to sell the club as quickly as possible.
“Paul Cooper does not need to involve us in the process but I’d imagine he will.”
Bolingbroke said it was his aim to attract crowds of 10,000 for the club’s last four home games of the season, but said 8,000 would be “good”.
He revealed 6,000 tickets have currently been sold for Saturday’s fixture against Plymouth Argyle.
It was also confirmed that the Bloomfield Road pitch will be dug up and re-laid following the rugby league’s Summer Bash fixtures on May 19.
Small bits of work will take place at the Squires Gate training ground, but a decision over further investment would be left to the new owners.
Those fans in attendance were then asked to express their views on how the stadium should be configured going forward.
The main consensus was that the three main stands should return to home supporters, with away fans being housed in the south end of the East Stand.
A singing section was suggested for the North Stand, while a family stand could be introduced in the West Stand.
Former Blackpool player Eamonn O’Keefe said it would be a “massive advantage” to have fans housed behind both goals.
A number of ideas were put forward regarding ticket prices. It was pointed out that, as it stands, the club’s season tickets are priced well below the League One average so an increase was likely.
The price of a regular adult season ticket being set at £299 appeared to go down well, with the option of purchasing one at an early bird discount of £250 or £275.
The option to pay in staggered installments rather than in one lump sum was also suggested.
It was recommended the senior concession band should be increased from age 60 to 65, while it was proposed a concession for those aged between 18 and 21 or 18 and 23 could also be introduced.
Other ideas put to the board were tickets for under fives being free, £5 for those aged between five and 11 and £10 for those aged between 11 and 16.
It was also suggested the central blocks in the West Stand could be charged at higher prices as “premium seats” with better views.
The issue of whether fans who already have season tickets should be able to keep their seats for next season was also raised, but the main message was one of unity for the fanbase going forward.
A fanzone promoting local breweries and suppliers and a designated smoking area were other ideas brought up by those in attendance, while new bottle bars with contactless card machines will be in use for the first time this Saturday.
The club’s current Supporter Liaison Officer (SLO) is Sarah Nibloe, but is only in the position on an interim basis.
It was suggested that, going forward into next season, there could be one SLO per stand, in what would be a voluntary role.
“There were lots of different opinions,” Bolingbroke said, concluding the meeting.
“Hopefully we can please some people. We can’t please everybody but I guarantee we have got the club’s interests at heart.
“We needed this input to make sure we’re heading in the right direction.
“It’s not the size of the football club that makes it great, what makes it great is the fans, a club that represents its heritage and its people.
“The ownership of a club is not something you find in a legal document, you find it in the fanbase.
“The owners of a club should be custodians and I’ll never forget that during my time here.
“When I look at the club from the time I’ve been here, what I’ve learned is that there’s a great deal of work to do. That’s our job.
“There are decisions we need to make over the next three or four months for the long-term benefit of the club.” |  |
| ‘Where there is harmony, may we bring discord. Where there is truth, may we bring error. Where there is faith, may we bring doubt. And where there is hope, may we bring despair’ |
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| last night’s meeting on 14:06 - Mar 28 with 1143 views | BringBackTheRedRoom |
| last night’s meeting on 10:04 - Mar 28 by BringBackTheRedRoom |
Ticket prices, stadium configuration, the potential 12-point deduction and the number of interested buyers were among the topics discussed at the fans’ forum with Blackpool FC’s new board last night.
Board members Ben Hatton, Michael Bolingbroke, Ian Currie and Tim Fielding all attended the meeting at Rowley’s restaurant inside Bloomfield Road.
Around 50 supporters were in attendance, with all fan groups represented.
The board stressed the need for the club to attract gates upwards of 10,000 for the last four home games of the season.
But the headline news related to the potential 12-point deduction hanging over the club, with the board hoping to hear a decision from the EFL within the next 48 hours
The club has now provided the EFL with all of the information it needs and remains hopeful they will be able to avoid the sanction.
Any decision made after today means the points deduction will apply for next season rather than this campaign.
As it stands, the Seasiders being docked 12 points would leave them just two points above the relegation zone.
It was also revealed that more than 50 potential buyers have expressed an interest in purchasing the football club.
“We have a list of over 50 names,” consultant to the board Bolingbroke said.
“But that’s 50 people saying they want to potentially bid for the club, but none of them have seen the financial position.
“We hope that information goes out on Monday. Out of those 50 you’d probably see it whittled down to 20 or so.”
A fan in the audience raised the position of Valeri Belokon, whose lawyers indicated in the last court hearing that he would be willing to foot the bill of any shortfall in cash between now and the time new owners are in place.
“The receiver is in touch with Mr Belokon pretty regularly. We believe the club is self-sufficient without any added investment,” Bolingbroke added.
“He will be watching this process but his communication will be with the receiver Paul Cooper, not the board.
“Our job is to make sure that help isn’t necessary. If we get the attendances we feel we can get for the next four home games, it shouldn’t be a problem.
“We are convinced we can get through (the summer). But the receiver works quickly and his orders are from the court, so his job is to sell the club as quickly as possible.
“Paul Cooper does not need to involve us in the process but I’d imagine he will.”
Bolingbroke said it was his aim to attract crowds of 10,000 for the club’s last four home games of the season, but said 8,000 would be “good”.
He revealed 6,000 tickets have currently been sold for Saturday’s fixture against Plymouth Argyle.
It was also confirmed that the Bloomfield Road pitch will be dug up and re-laid following the rugby league’s Summer Bash fixtures on May 19.
Small bits of work will take place at the Squires Gate training ground, but a decision over further investment would be left to the new owners.
Those fans in attendance were then asked to express their views on how the stadium should be configured going forward.
The main consensus was that the three main stands should return to home supporters, with away fans being housed in the south end of the East Stand.
A singing section was suggested for the North Stand, while a family stand could be introduced in the West Stand.
Former Blackpool player Eamonn O’Keefe said it would be a “massive advantage” to have fans housed behind both goals.
A number of ideas were put forward regarding ticket prices. It was pointed out that, as it stands, the club’s season tickets are priced well below the League One average so an increase was likely.
The price of a regular adult season ticket being set at £299 appeared to go down well, with the option of purchasing one at an early bird discount of £250 or £275.
The option to pay in staggered installments rather than in one lump sum was also suggested.
It was recommended the senior concession band should be increased from age 60 to 65, while it was proposed a concession for those aged between 18 and 21 or 18 and 23 could also be introduced.
Other ideas put to the board were tickets for under fives being free, £5 for those aged between five and 11 and £10 for those aged between 11 and 16.
It was also suggested the central blocks in the West Stand could be charged at higher prices as “premium seats” with better views.
The issue of whether fans who already have season tickets should be able to keep their seats for next season was also raised, but the main message was one of unity for the fanbase going forward.
A fanzone promoting local breweries and suppliers and a designated smoking area were other ideas brought up by those in attendance, while new bottle bars with contactless card machines will be in use for the first time this Saturday.
The club’s current Supporter Liaison Officer (SLO) is Sarah Nibloe, but is only in the position on an interim basis.
It was suggested that, going forward into next season, there could be one SLO per stand, in what would be a voluntary role.
“There were lots of different opinions,” Bolingbroke said, concluding the meeting.
“Hopefully we can please some people. We can’t please everybody but I guarantee we have got the club’s interests at heart.
“We needed this input to make sure we’re heading in the right direction.
“It’s not the size of the football club that makes it great, what makes it great is the fans, a club that represents its heritage and its people.
“The ownership of a club is not something you find in a legal document, you find it in the fanbase.
“The owners of a club should be custodians and I’ll never forget that during my time here.
“When I look at the club from the time I’ve been here, what I’ve learned is that there’s a great deal of work to do. That’s our job.
“There are decisions we need to make over the next three or four months for the long-term benefit of the club.” |
Had a think, lots of good points raised.
Would like to see maybe 4 SLO in the future, 1 to deal with the 3 home stands, and one to deal with away fans.
Glad there going to an attempt to sort the pitch.
Understand why away fans in south part of the east. (will still seem strange tho).
Ticket prices. Always going to be tricky this one.
No problem with upping the senior concession age (60 - 65). Retiring early in most cases is a life style choice.
Need to be convinced that concessions for those aged between 18 and 21 or 18 and 23, would really work. Fear that's the age group we may have lost the most from (however there will still be a few).
Would really like to see any concessions aimed at families and the under 15/16.
Think season ticket price of £299 is way too high, love to know what, if any market research has been done. (at that price you'll be lucky to get 5000 sales).
Couple of points not mentioned there, and I wonder if they were brought up
1) Away ticket prices at Bloomfield.
2) Some sort of open day for families/kids to meet the players.
3) Exiles groups. How do they go about recruiting new members? Just wondered if they could do more to recruit new members in to their own branches? This is just an observation, not a criticism, as I've no idea how & what they do/run now. It's just with so many 18 - 23 year olds now going to Uni, I'd have thought keeping their interest could be helped if they had contact/lifts etc.... with long term exiles. Also gets some fresh blood in those groups.
Tin hat firmly on. [Post edited 28 Mar 2019 16:20]
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| ‘Where there is harmony, may we bring discord. Where there is truth, may we bring error. Where there is faith, may we bring doubt. And where there is hope, may we bring despair’ |
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| last night’s meeting on 14:11 - Mar 28 with 1138 views | ROTTWEILERS |
| last night’s meeting on 14:06 - Mar 28 by BringBackTheRedRoom |
Had a think, lots of good points raised.
Would like to see maybe 4 SLO in the future, 1 to deal with the 3 home stands, and one to deal with away fans.
Glad there going to an attempt to sort the pitch.
Understand why away fans in south part of the east. (will still seem strange tho).
Ticket prices. Always going to be tricky this one.
No problem with upping the senior concession age (60 - 65). Retiring early in most cases is a life style choice.
Need to be convinced that concessions for those aged between 18 and 21 or 18 and 23, would really work. Fear that's the age group we may have lost the most from (however there will still be a few).
Would really like to see any concessions aimed at families and the under 15/16.
Think season ticket price of £299 is way too high, love to know what, if any market research has been done. (at that price you'll be lucky to get 5000 sales).
Couple of points not mentioned there, and I wonder if they were brought up
1) Away ticket prices at Bloomfield.
2) Some sort of open day for families/kids to meet the players.
3) Exiles groups. How do they go about recruiting new members? Just wondered if they could do more to recruit new members in to their own branches? This is just an observation, not a criticism, as I've no idea how & what they do/run now. It's just with so many 18 - 23 year olds now going to Uni, I'd have thought keeping their interest could be helped if they had contact/lifts etc.... with long term exiles. Also gets some fresh blood in those groups.
Tin hat firmly on. [Post edited 28 Mar 2019 16:20]
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I've not had time to read it all in great detail but my first observations are that we might be priced out next season. |  |
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| last night’s meeting on 15:54 - Mar 28 with 1123 views | Lala |
What did a season ticket cost at the start of this season? |  |
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| last night’s meeting on 16:08 - Mar 28 with 1115 views | TwelveAngryMen |
| last night’s meeting on 15:54 - Mar 28 by Lala |
What did a season ticket cost at the start of this season? |
£220 |  |
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| last night’s meeting on 16:19 - Mar 28 with 1111 views | tonysoprano |
If my memory serves me right we were paying £400 fifteen years ago , and pushing £500 ten years ago. Makes you think . |  | | |
| last night’s meeting on 16:51 - Mar 28 with 1094 views | Lala |
| last night’s meeting on 16:19 - Mar 28 by tonysoprano |
If my memory serves me right we were paying £400 fifteen years ago , and pushing £500 ten years ago. Makes you think . |
To be honest I don’t know what the Ieague 1 going rate st price is so I can’t really comment.
Seems like progress is being made though ðŸ‘
10 k maybe a big ask for the remaining home games but 8k should be achievable surely.
Onwards and upwards. | |
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| last night’s meeting on 16:57 - Mar 28 with 1086 views | kophero |
| last night’s meeting on 16:51 - Mar 28 by Lala |
To be honest I don’t know what the Ieague 1 going rate st price is so I can’t really comment.
Seems like progress is being made though ðŸ‘
10 k maybe a big ask for the remaining home games but 8k should be achievable surely.
Onwards and upwards. |
I'm not sure why people are pulling a face at £300. That is £13 per game. Seems to me when people go on about investment they are usually talking about someone else's money. |  | | |
| last night’s meeting on 17:00 - Mar 28 with 1084 views | Lala |
| last night’s meeting on 16:57 - Mar 28 by kophero |
I'm not sure why people are pulling a face at £300. That is £13 per game. Seems to me when people go on about investment they are usually talking about someone else's money. |
That’s a good point Koph and is pretty much the case a lot of the time. | |
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| last night’s meeting on 17:15 - Mar 28 with 1080 views | ROTTWEILERS |
| last night’s meeting on 17:00 - Mar 28 by Lala |
That’s a good point Koph and is pretty much the case a lot of the time. |
It's the getting rid of the Young Seasiders free match ticket that will do me. Might have to pick and choose games next season. | |
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| last night’s meeting on 17:43 - Mar 28 with 1069 views | BringBackTheRedRoom |
| last night’s meeting on 17:15 - Mar 28 by ROTTWEILERS |
It's the getting rid of the Young Seasiders free match ticket that will do me. Might have to pick and choose games next season. |
You want to coax back fans who've not been in 4/5 years, and also try and attract new fans or people who might be just occasional fans. Need to go down the drug dealer route, give them free(ish) samples, get them hooked.(and you make up the discount with football, by increased takings on things like shirts, scarves, drinks, food etc...) It's a lot easier for those already hooked.
Agree with ROTTS with the YS tickets.
Need to get the average age of the fan base down a bit. Looking at the photos of last night in the gazette, reminded me of walking in to Conservative Club meetings in Lytham in the late 80's. Was there anyone under 40 there? | |
| ‘Where there is harmony, may we bring discord. Where there is truth, may we bring error. Where there is faith, may we bring doubt. And where there is hope, may we bring despair’ |
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| last night’s meeting on 17:48 - Mar 28 with 1067 views | Lala |
I’m hoping I can still sing in the South. It was very vocal in there last home game and agree with O’Keefe we need vocal chords behind both goals.
I think stipulating a single area as a singing area may confuse that issue a little. | |
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| last night’s meeting on 17:58 - Mar 28 with 1062 views | janegallagher |
| last night’s meeting on 17:48 - Mar 28 by Lala |
I’m hoping I can still sing in the South. It was very vocal in there last home game and agree with O’Keefe we need vocal chords behind both goals.
I think stipulating a single area as a singing area may confuse that issue a little. |
We want all three sides singing. Get the west bouncing too 😃
I’ll be with the muckers 😎 | |
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| last night’s meeting on 18:44 - Mar 28 with 1054 views | BringBackTheRedRoom |
From the official site
https://www.blackpoolfc.co.uk/news/2019/march/supporters-consult-with-board-at-f
The Blackpool FC board held positive and constructive discussions with supporters and supporter groups at a fans' forum last night.
More than 50 supporters attended the invitation only event at the club, which provided the board with an opportunity to further engage and gain a greater understanding of supporter requirements moving forward.
In attendance from the board: Ben Hatton (Executive & Managing Director), Michael Bolingbroke (Consultant to the Board), Tim Fielding and Ian Currie (both Non-Executive Directors).
Introduction:
Non-Executive Director Tim Fielding welcomes the supporters in attendance at the Fans’ Forum and introduces those on the board.
Michael Bolingbroke opens up by stating that a great club represents its fans and its heritage, adding that a club doesn’t operate without its fanbase. He emphasises that the current board are custodians that will help in the transitional phase because there is a lot to be done and put in order for a future buyer of the club.
EFL Update:
Michael Bolingbroke confirms that the club has now given The EFL the necessary information requested to help make a decision and avoid a points deduction. He remains hopeful of a positive outcome and clarifies that any potential points deduction would come in to effect next season if an EFL decision was not reached this week.
Michael also adds that there is a reliance on supporters to come to games in their numbers, which would ultimately help in The EFL’s decision and attract new owners. At this point, more than 50 interested parties have expressed interest with receiver Paul Cooper about buying the club.
Ben Hatton adds that projections have been submitted to The EFL and that he is confident that the club is self-sufficient.
Items not on the agenda:
Michael Bolingbroke takes a moment to discuss a few items not on the agenda. He confirms that work on the Bloomfield Road pitch is due to start after the Summer Bash in May, while work will also take place at Squires Gate.
It is stressed that the long-term position of the academy and the East Stand are for the new owner of the club.
Decisions about players are to be made, in conjunction with the manager and club secretary.
Stadium Configuration:
At the moment, there is an immediate club and police preference for away supporters to be located in the south side of the East Stand, allowing for better access, facilities and refreshments.
Plenty of debate on this subject, with The Muckers preferring away supporters to be located in the north side of the East Stand long-term, which would also allow the good-natured rivalry between both sets of fans to continue, especially with the home fans in the North Stand generating plenty of atmosphere.
Overall, the general consensus in the room is that the North, West and South Stands should be for home supporters only. A designated Family Stand area is also discussed, with access permitted to adults and seniors with under-16s.
Season Tickets:
Michael Bolingbroke confirms that a season ticket will be for 23 league matches and won’t include cup games.
The general feeling in the room is that a price increase is to be accepted, though the price of a season ticket should stay below £300. Maybe a potential early bird price of £275.
A payment plan option is also requested, as is a category for those aged 18-21.
Block M considered a premium block for hospitality and potential sponsors, with blocks L and N also on the agenda given their close proximity to the half-way line.
One supporter suggests an open day for fans to enter the ground and try out potential season ticket seats.
Season ticket seats:
Plenty of debate on this subject and an acknowledgement that you are not going to please everyone. Some supporters suggest starting from scratch or reverting back to a period pre-boycott.
Room asked if there would be any objections to season ticket holders, as of now, being given opportunity to renew their seat.
Match tickets:
Supporter mentions the nationwide Twenty’s Plenty campaign regarding £20 admission fee for adults.
Board also confirms that print at home ticket option is being looked at again.
Concessions:
Suggestions from fans that the current senior age category (60+) rises to 65+ given that people are still working. That could effectively fund a reduction in price for an 18-21 season ticket category.
Further discussion over the age range for free junior tickets being lowered from an under-11 to maybe under-5s. Those in the 5-11 category would be charged a minimal price.
Ben Hatton confirms that the Young Seasiders’ membership scheme is currently being reviewed.
Reduced ticket price for unemployed is also brought up. Ash Hackett of the Community Trust mentions potentially linking that in with a project that the Trust runs.
Away Tickets:
Supporter asks if banding status for all those who haven’t attended in recent years can be restored.
Another supporter asks about the possibility of introducing a points system for away fixtures.
Additional Points:
Bottle bars are now in place on the concourse, located in the areas that used to be betting kiosks. There bars will be in operation from the Plymouth game and payment will be contactless, not cash. This will help speed up service and reduce queuing times.
Potential smoking area is also raised by a supporter.
SLO:
General feeling is that an SLO (Supporters’ Liaison Officer) should come from the fanbase, rather than be a club employee. This would be a voluntary role and could potentially extend to one SLO per stand.
Closing:
Michael Bolingbroke thanks supporters for their input and reiterates that the board has the best interests of the club at heart.
Couple of points I wondered about were brought up. | |
| ‘Where there is harmony, may we bring discord. Where there is truth, may we bring error. Where there is faith, may we bring doubt. And where there is hope, may we bring despair’ |
| |
| last night’s meeting on 20:08 - Mar 28 with 1037 views | spell_chekker |
| last night’s meeting on 18:44 - Mar 28 by BringBackTheRedRoom |
From the official site
https://www.blackpoolfc.co.uk/news/2019/march/supporters-consult-with-board-at-f
The Blackpool FC board held positive and constructive discussions with supporters and supporter groups at a fans' forum last night.
More than 50 supporters attended the invitation only event at the club, which provided the board with an opportunity to further engage and gain a greater understanding of supporter requirements moving forward.
In attendance from the board: Ben Hatton (Executive & Managing Director), Michael Bolingbroke (Consultant to the Board), Tim Fielding and Ian Currie (both Non-Executive Directors).
Introduction:
Non-Executive Director Tim Fielding welcomes the supporters in attendance at the Fans’ Forum and introduces those on the board.
Michael Bolingbroke opens up by stating that a great club represents its fans and its heritage, adding that a club doesn’t operate without its fanbase. He emphasises that the current board are custodians that will help in the transitional phase because there is a lot to be done and put in order for a future buyer of the club.
EFL Update:
Michael Bolingbroke confirms that the club has now given The EFL the necessary information requested to help make a decision and avoid a points deduction. He remains hopeful of a positive outcome and clarifies that any potential points deduction would come in to effect next season if an EFL decision was not reached this week.
Michael also adds that there is a reliance on supporters to come to games in their numbers, which would ultimately help in The EFL’s decision and attract new owners. At this point, more than 50 interested parties have expressed interest with receiver Paul Cooper about buying the club.
Ben Hatton adds that projections have been submitted to The EFL and that he is confident that the club is self-sufficient.
Items not on the agenda:
Michael Bolingbroke takes a moment to discuss a few items not on the agenda. He confirms that work on the Bloomfield Road pitch is due to start after the Summer Bash in May, while work will also take place at Squires Gate.
It is stressed that the long-term position of the academy and the East Stand are for the new owner of the club.
Decisions about players are to be made, in conjunction with the manager and club secretary.
Stadium Configuration:
At the moment, there is an immediate club and police preference for away supporters to be located in the south side of the East Stand, allowing for better access, facilities and refreshments.
Plenty of debate on this subject, with The Muckers preferring away supporters to be located in the north side of the East Stand long-term, which would also allow the good-natured rivalry between both sets of fans to continue, especially with the home fans in the North Stand generating plenty of atmosphere.
Overall, the general consensus in the room is that the North, West and South Stands should be for home supporters only. A designated Family Stand area is also discussed, with access permitted to adults and seniors with under-16s.
Season Tickets:
Michael Bolingbroke confirms that a season ticket will be for 23 league matches and won’t include cup games.
The general feeling in the room is that a price increase is to be accepted, though the price of a season ticket should stay below £300. Maybe a potential early bird price of £275.
A payment plan option is also requested, as is a category for those aged 18-21.
Block M considered a premium block for hospitality and potential sponsors, with blocks L and N also on the agenda given their close proximity to the half-way line.
One supporter suggests an open day for fans to enter the ground and try out potential season ticket seats.
Season ticket seats:
Plenty of debate on this subject and an acknowledgement that you are not going to please everyone. Some supporters suggest starting from scratch or reverting back to a period pre-boycott.
Room asked if there would be any objections to season ticket holders, as of now, being given opportunity to renew their seat.
Match tickets:
Supporter mentions the nationwide Twenty’s Plenty campaign regarding £20 admission fee for adults.
Board also confirms that print at home ticket option is being looked at again.
Concessions:
Suggestions from fans that the current senior age category (60+) rises to 65+ given that people are still working. That could effectively fund a reduction in price for an 18-21 season ticket category.
Further discussion over the age range for free junior tickets being lowered from an under-11 to maybe under-5s. Those in the 5-11 category would be charged a minimal price.
Ben Hatton confirms that the Young Seasiders’ membership scheme is currently being reviewed.
Reduced ticket price for unemployed is also brought up. Ash Hackett of the Community Trust mentions potentially linking that in with a project that the Trust runs.
Away Tickets:
Supporter asks if banding status for all those who haven’t attended in recent years can be restored.
Another supporter asks about the possibility of introducing a points system for away fixtures.
Additional Points:
Bottle bars are now in place on the concourse, located in the areas that used to be betting kiosks. There bars will be in operation from the Plymouth game and payment will be contactless, not cash. This will help speed up service and reduce queuing times.
Potential smoking area is also raised by a supporter.
SLO:
General feeling is that an SLO (Supporters’ Liaison Officer) should come from the fanbase, rather than be a club employee. This would be a voluntary role and could potentially extend to one SLO per stand.
Closing:
Michael Bolingbroke thanks supporters for their input and reiterates that the board has the best interests of the club at heart.
Couple of points I wondered about were brought up. |
I don't appreciate the gazette putting a quote from Eamon O'Keefe in the middle of what amounts to be the minutes. |  |
| |
| last night’s meeting on 20:41 - Mar 28 with 1018 views | spell_chekker |
| last night’s meeting on 18:44 - Mar 28 by BringBackTheRedRoom |
From the official site
https://www.blackpoolfc.co.uk/news/2019/march/supporters-consult-with-board-at-f
The Blackpool FC board held positive and constructive discussions with supporters and supporter groups at a fans' forum last night.
More than 50 supporters attended the invitation only event at the club, which provided the board with an opportunity to further engage and gain a greater understanding of supporter requirements moving forward.
In attendance from the board: Ben Hatton (Executive & Managing Director), Michael Bolingbroke (Consultant to the Board), Tim Fielding and Ian Currie (both Non-Executive Directors).
Introduction:
Non-Executive Director Tim Fielding welcomes the supporters in attendance at the Fans’ Forum and introduces those on the board.
Michael Bolingbroke opens up by stating that a great club represents its fans and its heritage, adding that a club doesn’t operate without its fanbase. He emphasises that the current board are custodians that will help in the transitional phase because there is a lot to be done and put in order for a future buyer of the club.
EFL Update:
Michael Bolingbroke confirms that the club has now given The EFL the necessary information requested to help make a decision and avoid a points deduction. He remains hopeful of a positive outcome and clarifies that any potential points deduction would come in to effect next season if an EFL decision was not reached this week.
Michael also adds that there is a reliance on supporters to come to games in their numbers, which would ultimately help in The EFL’s decision and attract new owners. At this point, more than 50 interested parties have expressed interest with receiver Paul Cooper about buying the club.
Ben Hatton adds that projections have been submitted to The EFL and that he is confident that the club is self-sufficient.
Items not on the agenda:
Michael Bolingbroke takes a moment to discuss a few items not on the agenda. He confirms that work on the Bloomfield Road pitch is due to start after the Summer Bash in May, while work will also take place at Squires Gate.
It is stressed that the long-term position of the academy and the East Stand are for the new owner of the club.
Decisions about players are to be made, in conjunction with the manager and club secretary.
Stadium Configuration:
At the moment, there is an immediate club and police preference for away supporters to be located in the south side of the East Stand, allowing for better access, facilities and refreshments.
Plenty of debate on this subject, with The Muckers preferring away supporters to be located in the north side of the East Stand long-term, which would also allow the good-natured rivalry between both sets of fans to continue, especially with the home fans in the North Stand generating plenty of atmosphere.
Overall, the general consensus in the room is that the North, West and South Stands should be for home supporters only. A designated Family Stand area is also discussed, with access permitted to adults and seniors with under-16s.
Season Tickets:
Michael Bolingbroke confirms that a season ticket will be for 23 league matches and won’t include cup games.
The general feeling in the room is that a price increase is to be accepted, though the price of a season ticket should stay below £300. Maybe a potential early bird price of £275.
A payment plan option is also requested, as is a category for those aged 18-21.
Block M considered a premium block for hospitality and potential sponsors, with blocks L and N also on the agenda given their close proximity to the half-way line.
One supporter suggests an open day for fans to enter the ground and try out potential season ticket seats.
Season ticket seats:
Plenty of debate on this subject and an acknowledgement that you are not going to please everyone. Some supporters suggest starting from scratch or reverting back to a period pre-boycott.
Room asked if there would be any objections to season ticket holders, as of now, being given opportunity to renew their seat.
Match tickets:
Supporter mentions the nationwide Twenty’s Plenty campaign regarding £20 admission fee for adults.
Board also confirms that print at home ticket option is being looked at again.
Concessions:
Suggestions from fans that the current senior age category (60+) rises to 65+ given that people are still working. That could effectively fund a reduction in price for an 18-21 season ticket category.
Further discussion over the age range for free junior tickets being lowered from an under-11 to maybe under-5s. Those in the 5-11 category would be charged a minimal price.
Ben Hatton confirms that the Young Seasiders’ membership scheme is currently being reviewed.
Reduced ticket price for unemployed is also brought up. Ash Hackett of the Community Trust mentions potentially linking that in with a project that the Trust runs.
Away Tickets:
Supporter asks if banding status for all those who haven’t attended in recent years can be restored.
Another supporter asks about the possibility of introducing a points system for away fixtures.
Additional Points:
Bottle bars are now in place on the concourse, located in the areas that used to be betting kiosks. There bars will be in operation from the Plymouth game and payment will be contactless, not cash. This will help speed up service and reduce queuing times.
Potential smoking area is also raised by a supporter.
SLO:
General feeling is that an SLO (Supporters’ Liaison Officer) should come from the fanbase, rather than be a club employee. This would be a voluntary role and could potentially extend to one SLO per stand.
Closing:
Michael Bolingbroke thanks supporters for their input and reiterates that the board has the best interests of the club at heart.
Couple of points I wondered about were brought up. |
Points of interest (article on official site rather than gazette article)
" He confirms that work on the Bloomfield Road pitch" - Bound to be a superficial, stop gap job. The receiver / interim board are there to get the club ticking over correctly and not to implement long term strategy.
"work will also take place at Squires Gate" - Same scenario as the pitch. They're not there to spend, spend, spend. They'll quite rightly (as is their remit) do the minimum to get it half decently serviceable.
"At the moment, there is an immediate club and police preference for away supporters to be located in the south side of the East Stand, allowing for better access, facilities and refreshments." - Seems reasonable as it will be rare that there'll be any home overspill to house in the east. If there was a regular 13k plus home turnout, the aways would have to slum it on the north part.
"A designated Family Stand area is also discussed, with access permitted to adults and seniors with under-16s." - Hope they get allocated at the very least half decent section. They are very important supporters.
"The general feeling in the room is that a price increase is to be accepted, though the price of a season ticket should stay below £300. Maybe a potential early bird price of £275." - The interim board is more or less duty bound to park the bus in the middle of the road. Average prices for L1. It's a shame as there is a need for some creative incentives.
"One supporter suggests an open day for fans to enter the ground and try out potential season ticket seats." - Whoopy do, couldn't he have made a better suggestion? 
"Room asked if there would be any objections to season ticket holders, as of now, being given opportunity to renew their seat." - Room asked, reply not published. Thorny issue.
"Ben Hatton confirms that the Young Seasiders’ membership scheme is currently being reviewed." - If it's currently free, it'd be a bit tight to put a charge on a match ticket.
"Another supporter asks about the possibility of introducing a points system for away fixtures." - Probably the same supporter who wants to pre-sit his season ticket seat.
"
Supporter mentions the nationwide Twenty’s Plenty campaign regarding £20 admission fee for adults." - Can someone shut this guy up? 
"There bars will be in operation from the Plymouth game and payment will be contactless, not cash" - Thanks Andy. | |
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| last night’s meeting on 04:44 - Mar 29 with 987 views | spell_chekker |
| last night’s meeting on 20:41 - Mar 28 by spell_chekker |
Points of interest (article on official site rather than gazette article)
" He confirms that work on the Bloomfield Road pitch" - Bound to be a superficial, stop gap job. The receiver / interim board are there to get the club ticking over correctly and not to implement long term strategy.
"work will also take place at Squires Gate" - Same scenario as the pitch. They're not there to spend, spend, spend. They'll quite rightly (as is their remit) do the minimum to get it half decently serviceable.
"At the moment, there is an immediate club and police preference for away supporters to be located in the south side of the East Stand, allowing for better access, facilities and refreshments." - Seems reasonable as it will be rare that there'll be any home overspill to house in the east. If there was a regular 13k plus home turnout, the aways would have to slum it on the north part.
"A designated Family Stand area is also discussed, with access permitted to adults and seniors with under-16s." - Hope they get allocated at the very least half decent section. They are very important supporters.
"The general feeling in the room is that a price increase is to be accepted, though the price of a season ticket should stay below £300. Maybe a potential early bird price of £275." - The interim board is more or less duty bound to park the bus in the middle of the road. Average prices for L1. It's a shame as there is a need for some creative incentives.
"One supporter suggests an open day for fans to enter the ground and try out potential season ticket seats." - Whoopy do, couldn't he have made a better suggestion?
"Room asked if there would be any objections to season ticket holders, as of now, being given opportunity to renew their seat." - Room asked, reply not published. Thorny issue.
"Ben Hatton confirms that the Young Seasiders’ membership scheme is currently being reviewed." - If it's currently free, it'd be a bit tight to put a charge on a match ticket.
"Another supporter asks about the possibility of introducing a points system for away fixtures." - Probably the same supporter who wants to pre-sit his season ticket seat.
"
Supporter mentions the nationwide Twenty’s Plenty campaign regarding £20 admission fee for adults." - Can someone shut this guy up?
"There bars will be in operation from the Plymouth game and payment will be contactless, not cash" - Thanks Andy. |
"He revealed 6,000 tickets have currently been sold for Saturday’s fixture against Plymouth Argyle" - as of Wednesday's meeting.
I'd assume this includes Argyle sales.
It looks a if the gate will be just over 8k???? | |
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| last night’s meeting on 04:53 - Mar 29 with 984 views | spell_chekker |
| last night’s meeting on 04:44 - Mar 29 by spell_chekker |
"He revealed 6,000 tickets have currently been sold for Saturday’s fixture against Plymouth Argyle" - as of Wednesday's meeting.
I'd assume this includes Argyle sales.
It looks a if the gate will be just over 8k???? |
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| last night’s meeting on 04:56 - Mar 29 with 983 views | spell_chekker |
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| last night’s meeting on 05:00 - Mar 29 with 981 views | spell_chekker |
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