Swann to decide on ground move

Last updated : 17 August 2013 By Matt Blanchard

The new Iron chief has hinted about a move away from Glanford Park in recent weeks and the subject of a ground move was a hot topic at this afternoon's Q&A session at Glanford Park.

"We have got a tired stadium and we need to do something about it", Swann told the fans.

"Do we plough money into this one or do we concentrate on moving in to a new one?

"We need to decide which one we need to do and focus on the future.

Swann highlighted the need for the stadium to be open 7 days a week to maximise income, but suggested the facilities at Glanford Park were not big enough in their current state.

"We can't put an event on for 400 people here, we havent got the size of rooms to make ourselves a few thousand (per event).

"We know we need a 600 capacity conference center, bigger bars, better bars, a bigger Iron bar and to be more accomodating to the away support.

"It's not that easy to say we'll just expand here.

"Initially we have to find where we stand with regards to being here or whether there's an option to move elsewhere.

"That has got to be my priority over the next few months.

"If you imagine trying to increase the capacity (of Glanford Park) to 12,500-14,000 we would still spend between £3-£5million on doing that.

"It's really about what is best for the club".

"We won't go in to debt by moving. We won't move if that is the case"

"Infact there is almost an uptake of 60% when clubs move to new stadiums. 

"If we move, we need the finance in place and this is what I have to negotiate with the council"

"I don't want to be throwing money away on this stadium at this moment in time."

When asked whether the club could seek help from Football League grants, General Manager David Beeby who was also present told the forum that it was only available for improving facilities.

"There are stadium improvement grants but it is not for commercial aspects.

"It is only up to a maximum of £900,000".