Southend United fans and residents have reacted positively to the proposed plans for Fossetts Farm - although some are sceptical they will ever come to fruition.

The plans, which have been years in the making, will include flats, shops, a hotel and multi-screen cinema in addition to the brand new stadium.

There will also be a residential and retail complex wrapped around the new stadium.

The plans, which were lodged with the council at the end of April, have been registered by planning officers who are currently considering their recommendations before councillors debate the application.

The Echo revealed exclusive images of the plans yesterday online and in the paper. Reaction from fans was mainly supportive, although many questioned whether it would ever happen. Jamie Forsyth, co-editor of All At Sea fanzine, said: “The CGI images of the new development look impressive, certainly if it comes to fruition it will attract people into the town and real thought has clearly gone into the layout and design, even if the stadium itself looks a little generic.

“However, there is an inevitable caveat that Southend fans will not be getting their hopes up because there have been countless false dawns in the past.

“What is clear is that Roots Hall is not fit for purpose and that the wider development has potential to breathe new life into an ailing town.”

Steve Riley said: “We have been in the Championship a few times now, but we have not been able to stay there. At least with this ground, next time we are in the Championship we have the capacity for bigger crowds.

“Maybe then we might be able to stay there a bit longer and maybe - who knows - with a decent stadium we might even see an investor with money and we might even see some Premier League football.”

Arron Gent added: “I really want Southend to build a new stadium but this has been going on since I was watching from the North Bank as a kid - I’m 40 next year! “Wasn’t this meant to be done by the start of next season?

“They put up the boards but still haven’t started to actually build it. Come on Southend - build the stadium the fans deserve.”

Gary Stratton said: “I wish they would get on and build it. They have been talking about the new stadium for years.”