‘Minutes’ from the Fans Advisory Board Meeting – 27 August 2024 (My Interpretation)
1. Playing Budget – As has been publicised in the media, the initial playing budget has been increased and, with days left in the transfer window, it is anticipated that that our business hasn’t been fully completed, yet. Ongoing.
2. Player Loans – The club is happy with the standard of the loan players we have attracted for this season, which is a reflection of the reputation that we have built up for ‘looking after’ our previous loan players.
3. East Stand – Happy with the progress, still on schedule, a great visual improvement from the West Stand. The basic outline of boxes, rooms and the disabled platform are emerging. Ongoing.
4. Executive Boxes - A slight change to the original (initial historical) plan in that a larger box has been added/included at each end of the planned ‘standard’ size centre boxes (2 in total). It is planned to name each box, room and facilities in the East Stand after individuals, not necessarily players, who have played and/or contributed to the club over the years and would warrant an appropriate recognition. Supporters are invited to recommend their preferences, suggestions on here will be coordinated and submitted for consideration. Ongoing.
5. Further Development – Following the anticipated completion of the East Stand, planned further development have been discussed, extensions to the North and South Stands, Fans Village, Carrs Bar etc… Nothing has been decided but discussions have taken place, considering priorities and cost effectiveness of each of any subsequent developments. Projected timelines for any future developments have not been declared. Ongoing.
6. Fan Engagement Policy – It’s a working document which will be revised and amended as and when required, based on the use/adoptive experiences. Ongoing.
7. Child Tickets – The problems with obtaining child U14 tickets without an accompanying adult was raised. This is a Safeguarding limitating policy that will not be amended, however the online bookings process will be investigated to make it easier to align. Ongoing.
8. Hot Water – It was suggested that whilst hot and cold running water was being installed into the East Stand, could the hot water part be extended to the North and South Stands at the same time. It will be investigated.
9. Footpaths – Concern was raised over the brambles etc. that are obstructing the approach footpaths within the stadium footprint and immediate vicinity. It will be investigated.
10. Carrs Bar – External benches appear to need replacing and/or some TLC. It will be investigated.
11. Carrs Bar – Following the completion of the access road to the East Stand, the road outside the West Stand will become virtually redundant, discussions have been initiated to identify how to extend Carrs Bar, either with temporary or a permanent structure outside the existing bar area. Ongoing.
12. Buy a Brick/Stone – The Buy a Brick/Stone initiative will be publicised next week (w/c 1 Sep 24). It is anticipated that there will be three price levels/sizes, (effectively personal, group and business) although all sizes will be available to purchase by all. The location of ‘the wall/path’ is to be decided. Ongoing.
13. Sixfields 30th Birthday Year – Suggestions are invited for activities/merchandise etc.. that would be beneficial or a ‘good idea’ in order to celebrate the event on the day and throughout the season. Suggestions on here will be consolidated and submitted.
14. Matchday Experience – The Club are looking for matchday volunteers, either for single games or longer, to act as ‘Here to Help’ persons. Looking for passionate individuals who are confident in communicating with a range of supporters, potentially directing them around the ground and or assisting the disoriented etc.. It is intended that Wendy will advertise the request, to include a list of possible utilities. Ongoing.
That’s my interpretation of the discussions from last night’s meeting. I will answer any queries if I am able, but I may need to seek furthest clarification if I’m unsure, so don’t shoot the messenger.
I will create a separate thread for the East Stand naming suggestions. I will also create a separate thread for suggestions for the 30th Birthday Year.
Thanks DC, much appreciated
I look forward to seeing some results in the near future but with all due respect, I won't hold my breath.
Fans Village, Hot water etc etc etc have been talked about for years. Hopefully now with the FAB, these things can't continually be swept under the carpet and lack of progress ignored
