PROGRAMME NOTES FOR LUTON TOWN

As we move into another season we cannot look forward without passing comment on events from the summer.

Firstly as a group we would like to record our thanks to Mark Devlin during his tenure for his efforts to stabilise and develop the football club. We always found Mark to be approachable and supportive of our aims as a supporters club and genuinely having supporters interests at heart. He will be missed, but we look forward to developing a positive relationship with his eventual successor.

Secondly, the proposed Stadium and sports complex at Shaw.

In the last 15 or so years the various council administrations have :-

1. denied improvements at the County Ground , by refusing development of Stratton bank
2. allowed protesters to delay a positive decision on a new site known as the front garden - procrastinating and effectively frustrating that proposal
3. suggested the Shaw site only to do a U-turn and renege on their proposal when faced with a small but vocal protest group

• That Shaw protest group, despite a long and vocal campaign could, in terms of their petition, claim to represent less than 2% of the population of the conurbation.

• Interestingly, on the very day that the protest group held their rally in the Town, against the proposal , they mustered apparently around a thousand individuals. Over 3000 Town fans were prepared to travel all the way to London, to see their team play QPR.

• It was also interesting to see the victory parades, ahead of the council meeting, by the protest group, indicating the deal had already been struck ahead of the meeting. Was this open democratic politics?

• Denying the opportunity for public debate, the Council have made their decision, before the full proposal and details had been finalised. How ironic that even the deputy Prime Minister would not judge on Brighton's proposed move to Falmer, without all details being available.

• The STFC Trust has already announced that it will be organising a petition to requesting a positive approach by the Council to finding a new site. We would urge all supporters to sign to show that we have a cause we care about and also have a voice to be heard in the Town.

• We have always sought constructive approach to the Council, but for far too long we have received no positive response in terms of Stadium development. Now is the time to voice your opinion and make them aware of the mood of fans - who are also their electorate.

• This town deserves a very special sports complex and arena to be proud of - lets help make it happen.

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