Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Queensland Road
By Boris Mellor
July 7 2008
ARSENAL have been asked by Islington Council to rethink its plans for the Queensland Road redevelopment. The cub's proposals, in a so called consultation document, would have meant the end for a community sports centre next to the Emirates stadium.
The club have been told by the council to come back with new plans to redevelop the site. Planners fear that Arsenal's proposed development was too large, and that proposals for a new multiplex cinema would have put the nearby historic Holloway Odeon at risk. Nor was there any proposal to replace the now demolished JVC/02 centre.
The council have informed Arsenal FC that the application was likely to be turned down in its present form. Councillor Terry Stacy, Lib Dem deputy leader of Islington told the Islington Tribune "There has been considerable strength of feeling locally about various aspects of this development - "We all want to get the Queensland Road development back on track as quickly as possible but with Arsenal and the local community working together to get the balance right for everyone."
Supporters of the campaign lobby Islington Council
Ian Shacklock, organiser of the CAMPAIGN FOR COMMUNITY SPORTS CENTRE AT ARSENAL who has collected more than 3,000 signatures in favour of a community sports centre on the site, was delighted by the move. He told the Islington Tribune, "This keeps the door open for a sports complex just when we thought all hope was lost".Repercussions?
With the property market in free fall failure to get permission to go ahead with the scheme could have serious financial implications. It's a pity that the Arsenal board's attitude has failed to win over local support for their plans. A proposal for a more sympathetic local development, including a community sports centre may have persuaded the council to support their plans.
Instead of pickets outside the Town Hall demanding a sports centre there could have been local support for the redevelopment. Having got the new stadium they wanted directors are guilty of ignoring the needs of the local community. Less hubris and more compassion might help them build the club's local support.
Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Arsenal Times (IP Logged)
Date: 07/07/2008 20:09
Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Optimistic Gunner (IP Logged)
Date: 07/07/2008 21:02
The Holloway Odeon is c.rap! It onlys has a couple of good screens, the rest of the screens are s.hite when compared to the Vue cinema in Angel.
Vue cinema FTW!
Also the Islington council always acts like b.itch towards us.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:08:00:02:33 by Optimistic Gunner.
Vue cinema FTW!
Also the Islington council always acts like b.itch towards us.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:08:00:02:33 by Optimistic Gunner.
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Padre Pio (IP Logged)
Date: 07/07/2008 22:07
How far is the Vue fom the Emirates? How many cinemas do we need so close to each other?
We have got the stadium, why shouldnt the club rebuild the O2 centre.
I think the Odeon is a great building and all these complexes are the same, no character.
Also our students use the Odeon to put on the films they produce.
It isnt a matter of being anti- Arsenal, its a matter of making the club wanted by the community.
We have got the stadium, why shouldnt the club rebuild the O2 centre.
I think the Odeon is a great building and all these complexes are the same, no character.
Also our students use the Odeon to put on the films they produce.
It isnt a matter of being anti- Arsenal, its a matter of making the club wanted by the community.
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Optimistic Gunner (IP Logged)
Date: 08/07/2008 00:11
Odeon used to have good cinemas but now they have been overtaken by Vue.
Vue's cinemas has bigger screens, better facilities, much more leg room in the screens, better chairs, you can buy tickets and food from the same counter at the same time.
I am a film buff and IMO Odeon are c.rap compared to Vue.
The only Odeon has going for it is that it has more cinemas in the country then Vue, but that doesn't matter if you live in London.
The Vue in Angel takes 20-15 mins by bus from Holloway and 10 mins by tube so its not that far away.
I didn't quite get this part because isn't Arsenal part of the community anyway?
Vue's cinemas has bigger screens, better facilities, much more leg room in the screens, better chairs, you can buy tickets and food from the same counter at the same time.
I am a film buff and IMO Odeon are c.rap compared to Vue.
The only Odeon has going for it is that it has more cinemas in the country then Vue, but that doesn't matter if you live in London.
The Vue in Angel takes 20-15 mins by bus from Holloway and 10 mins by tube so its not that far away.
Quote:Padre
It isnt a matter of being anti- Arsenal, its a matter of making the club wanted by the community.
I didn't quite get this part because isn't Arsenal part of the community anyway?
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Padre Pio (IP Logged)
Date: 08/07/2008 00:20
It used to be more part of the community. When the 02 centre was there local kids used the facilities. They often had contact with Arsenal youth coaches.
I know a coach ove there he wants the facilities back, its dispersed eveywhere now, church halls old clubs etc. Its often more expensive fo kids.
Kids loved doing training ight next to the stadium. What contact do they have with the club now? If you cant get a ticket you are an outsider.
They promised they would replace the sports centre - now they wont.
I have been to the Vue, its ok, but its the same as the Vue anywhere anytown. But the big point is it was empty about 20 people for the first day of the Simpsons. It will just force other cinemas to close - Holloway Rd will become a ghost town
I know a coach ove there he wants the facilities back, its dispersed eveywhere now, church halls old clubs etc. Its often more expensive fo kids.
Kids loved doing training ight next to the stadium. What contact do they have with the club now? If you cant get a ticket you are an outsider.
They promised they would replace the sports centre - now they wont.
I have been to the Vue, its ok, but its the same as the Vue anywhere anytown. But the big point is it was empty about 20 people for the first day of the Simpsons. It will just force other cinemas to close - Holloway Rd will become a ghost town
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Optimistic Gunner (IP Logged)
Date: 08/07/2008 00:42
Holloway Rd wouldn't become a ghost town just because of a cinema closing down, lol.
BTW is this right?
Did Arsenal propose to built a new multiplex cinema? If so why?
Also I am quite confused by the article.
Do Aresnal want to build a new sports centre or not?
If they don't then why not?
Why hasn't a new sports centre been build yet?
Man am I confused.
BTW is this right?
Quote:Planners fear that Arsenal's proposed development was too large, and that proposals for a new multiplex cinema would have put the nearby historic Holloway Odeon at risk.
Did Arsenal propose to built a new multiplex cinema? If so why?
Also I am quite confused by the article.
Do Aresnal want to build a new sports centre or not?
If they don't then why not?
Why hasn't a new sports centre been build yet?
Man am I confused.
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Padre Pio (IP Logged)
Date: 08/07/2008 08:49
Yes they have proposed a multi-complex cinema. They continue to refuse to rebuild the community sports centre. They ae proposing shops, restaurants and the cinema.
See left hand menu fo more aticles on this issue, plus the sticky post at top.
That end of Holloway rd has a series of pubs and cafes that depend on the cinema fo evening trade. The cinema brings life to the area when the shops are shut
See left hand menu fo more aticles on this issue, plus the sticky post at top.
That end of Holloway rd has a series of pubs and cafes that depend on the cinema fo evening trade. The cinema brings life to the area when the shops are shut
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Merlion96 (IP Logged)
Date: 08/07/2008 09:49
I think Arsenal ahs forgotten its root as a community-based sport clubs.
it is all business...and you knows bankers have no hearts, just a clump of iron there.
Pity, Arsenal had gone foreign, no more a community-based club.
it is all business...and you knows bankers have no hearts, just a clump of iron there.
Pity, Arsenal had gone foreign, no more a community-based club.
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Simon68 (IP Logged)
Date: 08/07/2008 10:55
About cinemas and the attraction of a nice, comfortable, warm cinema 'experience' that Vue offers. Nothing against that, but what about the tradition of the Odeon cinemas, which is the type I was brought up on (along with the Classic Cinema in Hendon Central - now a gym/health club).
It's a lot like saying that the driver only operated buses are better than the old routemaster buses.
There's merits for both, but both should be available.
Does that part of North London need another cinema?
And wouldn't it be better for a football club to offer a facility where people can run around playing sport for enjoyment as opposed to sitting down eating chocolate and popcorn and drinking Coca Cola while watching a film for their entertainment?
By the way Padre, the picture could be used for a 'Spot the Arsenal Times Guv'nor' Competition, don't you think?
It's a lot like saying that the driver only operated buses are better than the old routemaster buses.
There's merits for both, but both should be available.
Does that part of North London need another cinema?
And wouldn't it be better for a football club to offer a facility where people can run around playing sport for enjoyment as opposed to sitting down eating chocolate and popcorn and drinking Coca Cola while watching a film for their entertainment?
By the way Padre, the picture could be used for a 'Spot the Arsenal Times Guv'nor' Competition, don't you think?
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Liquidd (IP Logged)
Date: 08/07/2008 15:20
Arsenal already have a sports centre with a 5 minute walk of the stadium, its called the Sobell Leisure Centre and its huge! The directors have agreed to develop this site without the expectation of making a profit. Is this a case of asking for too much by insisting they build something that is not economically viable?
Is it really necessary for local kids to rub shoulders with Arsenal youth coaches in a purpose built building, rather than one that can be say, hired out? Although a non self-sufficient new sports centre would be a bonus for a few, it won't be accessible to everyone.
The Holloway odeon like many other odeons screens films for 4/5 individuals at a time, that is because times have changed and watching the latest films today is actually free. With internet bandwidths increasing exponentially year on year, there is only one way for the cinema (as we know it) to go, and that is down the drain.
The multiplex cinema adds something new to the area, and that is immediate access to a great stadium, the armoury as well other amenities. What the club are trying to do is open up the Arsenal experience to everyone, and that includes people that aren't privileged enough to be located within a mile of the stadium. If someone wants to take his wife and kids on a day out to the Emirates, visit the stadium, stock up on shirts, why shouldn't he have the opportunity to buy some popcorn and watch a movie too? What about 3 young lads traveling in from Essex who never will get to use a sports centre, shouldn't they be catered for?
If you want to park your bum in a comfy seat and watch a film in peace, you go to the Holloway odeon. That is their market. The multiplex located adjacent to the stadium is not a threat to their customers but seeks to tap into a different market altogether. It smells too much of a 'tyranny of the minority' imo.
Is it really necessary for local kids to rub shoulders with Arsenal youth coaches in a purpose built building, rather than one that can be say, hired out? Although a non self-sufficient new sports centre would be a bonus for a few, it won't be accessible to everyone.
The Holloway odeon like many other odeons screens films for 4/5 individuals at a time, that is because times have changed and watching the latest films today is actually free. With internet bandwidths increasing exponentially year on year, there is only one way for the cinema (as we know it) to go, and that is down the drain.
The multiplex cinema adds something new to the area, and that is immediate access to a great stadium, the armoury as well other amenities. What the club are trying to do is open up the Arsenal experience to everyone, and that includes people that aren't privileged enough to be located within a mile of the stadium. If someone wants to take his wife and kids on a day out to the Emirates, visit the stadium, stock up on shirts, why shouldn't he have the opportunity to buy some popcorn and watch a movie too? What about 3 young lads traveling in from Essex who never will get to use a sports centre, shouldn't they be catered for?
If you want to park your bum in a comfy seat and watch a film in peace, you go to the Holloway odeon. That is their market. The multiplex located adjacent to the stadium is not a threat to their customers but seeks to tap into a different market altogether. It smells too much of a 'tyranny of the minority' imo.
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Optimistic Gunner (IP Logged)
Date: 08/07/2008 16:09
A new multi-complex cinema is bad idea and totally unnecessary.
Ok, but what tradition of Odeon are you talking about?
Vue and Odeon are same except that Vue has much better than screens and facilities than Odeon.
I used to go the Holloway Odeon all the time and used hate the Vue cinema in Angel (it used be called Warner Village cinema) but then I watch a couple of movies there and was won over because of its better facilities.
Yes, you can watch new flims for on the net and with very quality too. However I still go to the cinema for films that deserve to be watched on the big screen.
Cinemas aren't going down the drain anythime soon, as the big blockbuster films still attract huge audiences and are constantly breaking the box office records.
Back to the topic. We need to build a new sports centre not a cinema, even with the Sobell centre (we had all of our PE classes thier for the whole of year 9, lol) being so close to the stadium.
Quote:Simon
About cinemas and the attraction of a nice, comfortable, warm cinema 'experience' that Vue offers. Nothing against that, but what about the tradition of the Odeon cinemas, which is the type I was brought up on
Ok, but what tradition of Odeon are you talking about?
Vue and Odeon are same except that Vue has much better than screens and facilities than Odeon.
I used to go the Holloway Odeon all the time and used hate the Vue cinema in Angel (it used be called Warner Village cinema) but then I watch a couple of movies there and was won over because of its better facilities.
Quote:Liquidd
With internet bandwidths increasing exponentially year on year, there is only one way for the cinema (as we know it) to go, and that is down the drain.
Yes, you can watch new flims for on the net and with very quality too. However I still go to the cinema for films that deserve to be watched on the big screen.
Cinemas aren't going down the drain anythime soon, as the big blockbuster films still attract huge audiences and are constantly breaking the box office records.
Back to the topic. We need to build a new sports centre not a cinema, even with the Sobell centre (we had all of our PE classes thier for the whole of year 9, lol) being so close to the stadium.
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Padre Pio (IP Logged)
Date: 08/07/2008 17:34
Dont forget there is also Screen on the Green that would be 4 cinemas on a two mile stretch of the A1. The area cant sustain that many.
The Sobell is multi purpose and not just dedicated to indoor football, and does not have the space that was used at the o2.
At a time when the press is highlighting gun and knife crime shouldnt Arsenal be doing more to get kids off the streets?
The Sobell is too expensive for most kids, and many are not attracted by it. it was the connection with Arsenal that motivated the kids to turn up. There are not enough indoor football pitches, if the Sobell was good enough why wasnt it used before? Because it is a facility, quite reasonably, for adults and older students. It is also an ageing facility and it needs major refurbishment. One suggestion was even that it should be demolished!
Shouldnt we take the view of Arsenal coaches seriously, they say kids are suffering, that the facilities are not there.
If we ignore coaches we contine to back a system where local talent is ignored, and for once I would blame Arsenal.
The Sobell is multi purpose and not just dedicated to indoor football, and does not have the space that was used at the o2.
At a time when the press is highlighting gun and knife crime shouldnt Arsenal be doing more to get kids off the streets?
The Sobell is too expensive for most kids, and many are not attracted by it. it was the connection with Arsenal that motivated the kids to turn up. There are not enough indoor football pitches, if the Sobell was good enough why wasnt it used before? Because it is a facility, quite reasonably, for adults and older students. It is also an ageing facility and it needs major refurbishment. One suggestion was even that it should be demolished!
Shouldnt we take the view of Arsenal coaches seriously, they say kids are suffering, that the facilities are not there.
If we ignore coaches we contine to back a system where local talent is ignored, and for once I would blame Arsenal.
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Optimistic Gunner (IP Logged)
Date: 08/07/2008 19:31
Agreed Padre, though The Screen on the Green is for independent flims only, so it attracts a small amount of audience.
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Simon68 (IP Logged)
Date: 08/07/2008 23:41
But a more discerning, intelligent, quality audience that goes to the Phoenix in E. Finchley or Everyman in Hampstead also.
The differemce between Vue cinemas and Odeon cinemas?
Think of The Emirates and then Highbury.
The differemce between Vue cinemas and Odeon cinemas?
Think of The Emirates and then Highbury.
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Padre Pio (IP Logged)
Date: 08/07/2008 23:58
Screen does indeed show independent movies - and long may it do so - but it also shows the blockbusters there. I remember watching Beetlejuice there (that might give a clue to the photo).
It has always shown Ken Loach films, now if the Vue and Arsenal plc force it to shut down it is unlikely they will show Loach movies.
It has always shown Ken Loach films, now if the Vue and Arsenal plc force it to shut down it is unlikely they will show Loach movies.
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Optimistic Gunner (IP Logged)
Date: 09/07/2008 00:30
Padre, Vue is not forcing The Screen on the Green or the Odeon to close, they can't, they not that powerful, lol.
I really don't see the tradiotion of the Holloway Odeon you are talking about and I have been going to that cenima since I was little.
I get the difference between Highbury and Emirates, but how can a cenima from a corporate of cenima chains have a soul or tradition?
Is it the building itself that you are talking about Simon?
Quote:Simon
The differemce between Vue cinemas and Odeon cinemas?
Think of The Emirates and then Highbury.
I really don't see the tradiotion of the Holloway Odeon you are talking about and I have been going to that cenima since I was little.
I get the difference between Highbury and Emirates, but how can a cenima from a corporate of cenima chains have a soul or tradition?
Is it the building itself that you are talking about Simon?
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Padre Pio (IP Logged)
Date: 09/07/2008 00:36
there just aent enough customers for more cinemas in that area. If Arsenal open 5 screens then something has to give - it will be the small independent, and possibly the Odeon
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Sebastian87 (IP Logged)
Date: 09/07/2008 00:52
Quite right, Simon, about popcorn, chocolate & coca-cola.
I keep hearing about plans to tackle childhood obesity, so why aren't these plans being put into action in such a major redevelopment?
There's a much greater need for an indoor football facility than for a cinema at the Emirates site. There's only one place in the world where you could site an Arsenal sports centre, yet a cinema could go anywhere. Well, maybe not in Islington, we seem to have enough already.
I keep hearing about plans to tackle childhood obesity, so why aren't these plans being put into action in such a major redevelopment?
There's a much greater need for an indoor football facility than for a cinema at the Emirates site. There's only one place in the world where you could site an Arsenal sports centre, yet a cinema could go anywhere. Well, maybe not in Islington, we seem to have enough already.
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Optimistic Gunner (IP Logged)
Date: 09/07/2008 02:07
Exactly I don't see the reasoning behind building a cinema next our stadium when there are enough cinemas in the area already?
IMO its retarded for Arsenal to even consider building a new cinema next to the Emirates, let alone to actually apply a proposal for it!
I thought our club was better than that.
IMO its retarded for Arsenal to even consider building a new cinema next to the Emirates, let alone to actually apply a proposal for it!
I thought our club was better than that.
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: dixon9 (IP Logged)
Date: 09/07/2008 08:08
Quote:Simon68
By the way Padre, the picture could be used for a 'Spot the Arsenal Times Guv'nor' Competition, don't you think?
Don´t tell me Padre is that bloke right at the front with shorts, socks and sandals!
.
"It is born out of hypocrisy and fundamental insecurity. There have been two kids on the block for the past 12 years. Suddenly, there is a third and that one is threatening to be more successful than the others and they don’t like it." P Kenyon.
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Sebastian87 (IP Logged)
Date: 09/07/2008 08:17
Perhaps it'snot the Club making these proposals. More likely a third party organisation acting on Arsenal's behalf. It's a lot easier to get angry with property developers than with the Club, and if they carry on scoring own goals like this then Arsenal might want to intervene or replace them.
This reminds me a bit of the regeneration of Paddington Basin. Lots of tall gleaming modern buildings, but every single shop or bar is a chain store. Hardly a community atmosphere.
This reminds me a bit of the regeneration of Paddington Basin. Lots of tall gleaming modern buildings, but every single shop or bar is a chain store. Hardly a community atmosphere.
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Simon68 (IP Logged)
Date: 09/07/2008 09:39
No dixie, he's the one on the left with the necklace and handbag!
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Padre Pio (IP Logged)
Date: 09/07/2008 15:42
You are both wrong. I am yet to be spotted
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Optimistic Gunner (IP Logged)
Date: 09/07/2008 15:56
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Simon68 (IP Logged)
Date: 09/07/2008 16:47
I can hardly give it away can I Padre?
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Padre Pio (IP Logged)
Date: 09/07/2008 19:07
You are sworn to secrecy
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Liquidd (IP Logged)
Date: 09/07/2008 23:11
If kids want some Arsenal youth coach time, what about:
Clissold park?
Finsbury park?
Whittington park?
Youth coaches visiting islington schools?
Give the Sobell Leisure Centre a new lick of paint?
Or how about use Market Road and its custom built pitches?
Why on earth is there a need for a building, that will not pay for itself but will eat up resources, built on land which is actually prime retail area? Baffling, very very baffling.
Clissold park?
Finsbury park?
Whittington park?
Youth coaches visiting islington schools?
Give the Sobell Leisure Centre a new lick of paint?
Or how about use Market Road and its custom built pitches?
Why on earth is there a need for a building, that will not pay for itself but will eat up resources, built on land which is actually prime retail area? Baffling, very very baffling.
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Padre Pio (IP Logged)
Date: 09/07/2008 23:58
The O2 was an indoor full size pitch facility - all weather all year round.
The Sobell is not there for kids to be coached - its there for paying customers - mainly adult to keep fit.
The number of out door pitches is also falling in number.
Arsenal promised to replace the centre.
Shouldnt the club promote a link between itself and the community? Maybe they will find the next Charlie George. Maybe they will create loyal suppot amongst local kids and parents. Football needs to put more back into the grass roots.
Nobody is asking that they do more, just do what they did before the move. If they could affod it when at Highbury why not now when they have more money?
The Sobell is not there for kids to be coached - its there for paying customers - mainly adult to keep fit.
The number of out door pitches is also falling in number.
Arsenal promised to replace the centre.
Shouldnt the club promote a link between itself and the community? Maybe they will find the next Charlie George. Maybe they will create loyal suppot amongst local kids and parents. Football needs to put more back into the grass roots.
Nobody is asking that they do more, just do what they did before the move. If they could affod it when at Highbury why not now when they have more money?
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Optimistic Gunner (IP Logged)
Date: 10/07/2008 00:22
Exactly Padre.
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Sebastian87 (IP Logged)
Date: 10/07/2008 14:03
Good points, Padre.
As far as the kids are concerned, the home of football is at Arsenal, not Clissold Park, or the Sobell, the school they attend every day, or anywhere else. The buzz they used to get at the Highbury centre was amazing.
When you consider the mutual benefits an Arsenal sports centre would give to the kids, to the council and to the Club's image, it's hard to imagine why anybody would want to factor in the opportunity cost of the so-called prime land (which used to be a rubbish dump, by the way)
I don't envy the person who is going to explain to the thousands of kids that they no longer matter.
As far as the kids are concerned, the home of football is at Arsenal, not Clissold Park, or the Sobell, the school they attend every day, or anywhere else. The buzz they used to get at the Highbury centre was amazing.
When you consider the mutual benefits an Arsenal sports centre would give to the kids, to the council and to the Club's image, it's hard to imagine why anybody would want to factor in the opportunity cost of the so-called prime land (which used to be a rubbish dump, by the way)
I don't envy the person who is going to explain to the thousands of kids that they no longer matter.
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Liquidd (IP Logged)
Date: 11/07/2008 12:36
Money guys, money. We need our club to become profitable so that we are able to compete in the transfer market. Arsenal have scouts operating all around the world that can unearth talent. Top clubs no longer look for talent within their catchment area, times have changed, football has gone global. If someone is good enough to play for Arsenal within the tiny Islington area, they will be spotted.
Over a 17 year period, how much will this building cost the club in terms of construction costs, running costs and lost revenue? How much will the delays to construction cost in terms of redesign, legal and administration fees? Is it worth it for what effectively is an after-school activity centre in an area of the world that has plenty?
Over a 17 year period, how much will this building cost the club in terms of construction costs, running costs and lost revenue? How much will the delays to construction cost in terms of redesign, legal and administration fees? Is it worth it for what effectively is an after-school activity centre in an area of the world that has plenty?
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Padre Pio (IP Logged)
Date: 11/07/2008 17:18
Liquidd you sum up the fact football has lost its soul. It will lose its local base and then World domination will mean nothing.
If kids are trained the wrong way they wont develop so need to look.
If kids are trained the wrong way they wont develop so need to look.
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Sebastian87 (IP Logged)
Date: 12/07/2008 13:03
Sad but true, Padre. It'll all backfire one day.
A young lad has hit the nail on the head with his comments in yesterday's Islington Tribune. (See the article ‘Gap between rich and poor leads to violence on streets’)
"http://www.thecnj.co.uk/islington/2008/071108/news071108_05.html"
"Michael Potten, 19, who last month won an EC1 New Deal Pride award, told a meeting of Islington Council’s executive last week that, with multi-million pound complexes next to council estates, young people were surrounded by things they want but cannot have"
Pretty poignant, eh?
Another thing - if the sole purpose of the indoor football facility was to recruit future stars then it would be financially pointless. But it's much more than that. It's about youth diversion, giving the kids something to aim for, visible goodwill from Arsenal, and so on.
If we could measure the costs of NOT having a community sports centre at the home of football (e.g. crime, obesity, alienation, etc) then even the profiteers would see this as a no-brainer.
A young lad has hit the nail on the head with his comments in yesterday's Islington Tribune. (See the article ‘Gap between rich and poor leads to violence on streets’)
"http://www.thecnj.co.uk/islington/2008/071108/news071108_05.html"
"Michael Potten, 19, who last month won an EC1 New Deal Pride award, told a meeting of Islington Council’s executive last week that, with multi-million pound complexes next to council estates, young people were surrounded by things they want but cannot have"
Pretty poignant, eh?
Another thing - if the sole purpose of the indoor football facility was to recruit future stars then it would be financially pointless. But it's much more than that. It's about youth diversion, giving the kids something to aim for, visible goodwill from Arsenal, and so on.
If we could measure the costs of NOT having a community sports centre at the home of football (e.g. crime, obesity, alienation, etc) then even the profiteers would see this as a no-brainer.
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: LongLiveArsenal (IP Logged)
Date: 12/07/2008 17:47
Money, Money, Money does buys some things and others certainly not. In the case of a our beloved Arsenal, let’s remember that our stadium it is in the midst of an urban environment, surrounded by residents who are also taxpayers and voters, -most of whom don’t give a toss about football, and if they do, it is mostly antipathy as they would rather see their neighbourhood free from rowdy fans, noisy games, road closures, intrusive helicopters, smelly food vendors, hundreds of policemen, police vans, dogs, barriers and the deplorable rubbish left behind some of our less considerate brethren. Believe me, I’ would not buy a property in Highbury!
If said taxpayers and voters actively boycott Arsenal because of its stubbornness in refusing to fulfil the promise made to the community to rebuild the JVC Sports Centre, we will have to spend a lot more money buying them back. It is impossible in a democracy to freely antagonise a community; 3000 signatories of a petition can become a serious political force.
Money in this case can buy us back some of the support we’ve lost in the community.
If said taxpayers and voters actively boycott Arsenal because of its stubbornness in refusing to fulfil the promise made to the community to rebuild the JVC Sports Centre, we will have to spend a lot more money buying them back. It is impossible in a democracy to freely antagonise a community; 3000 signatories of a petition can become a serious political force.
Money in this case can buy us back some of the support we’ve lost in the community.
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Padre Pio (IP Logged)
Date: 12/07/2008 19:41
Well said Seb and LLA. Football will become sick, if it alrady isnt, if money is the only goal. And society aound it will become even sicker.
Stars paid £6 million a year, but not a penny to spare for the local community. Neve mind they can retreat to thier gated ghettos in Hampstead
Stars paid £6 million a year, but not a penny to spare for the local community. Neve mind they can retreat to thier gated ghettos in Hampstead
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Liquidd (IP Logged)
Date: 16/07/2008 15:06
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Padre Pio (IP Logged)
Date: 17/07/2008 22:04
No we dont need to think again none of these schools are anywhere near Islington, yet alone the stadium.
Southbury Leisure Centre Holiday Course (non residential)
Mon, Jul 28 United Kingdom St. Aloysius College Playing Fields Holiday Course (non residential)
Mon, Aug 4 United Kingdom Southbury Leisure Centre Holiday Course (non residential)
Mon, Aug 4 United Kingdom Haverstock School Holiday Course (non residential)
Mon, Aug 4 United Kingdom Martin Junior School Holiday Course (non residential)
Mon, Aug 11 United Kingdom Highfield Primary School Holiday Course (non residential)
Tue, Aug 26 United Kingdom Aldenham School Holiday Course (non residential)
Tue, Aug 26 United Kingdom Southbury Leisure Centre Holiday Course (non residential)
Tue, Aug 26 United Kingdom Haverstock School Holiday Course (non residential)
Southbury Leisure Centre Holiday Course (non residential)
Mon, Jul 28 United Kingdom St. Aloysius College Playing Fields Holiday Course (non residential)
Mon, Aug 4 United Kingdom Southbury Leisure Centre Holiday Course (non residential)
Mon, Aug 4 United Kingdom Haverstock School Holiday Course (non residential)
Mon, Aug 4 United Kingdom Martin Junior School Holiday Course (non residential)
Mon, Aug 11 United Kingdom Highfield Primary School Holiday Course (non residential)
Tue, Aug 26 United Kingdom Aldenham School Holiday Course (non residential)
Tue, Aug 26 United Kingdom Southbury Leisure Centre Holiday Course (non residential)
Tue, Aug 26 United Kingdom Haverstock School Holiday Course (non residential)
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Sebastian87 (IP Logged)
Date: 18/07/2008 00:55
I think you'll also find Arsenal soccer schools in places like Singapore. In fact, everywhere in the world except Highbury.
I remember when Cheddar cheese was being made everywhere in the world except Cheddar and one day a businessman brought it back to its origins as a boost to tourism. With luck, a like-minded businessman will want to bring football back to Highbury but if he leaves it too late all the land will have been snapped up for private use.
Has anyone ever suggested that an Arsenal sports centre would be hogged by Islington residents? The whole idea of a communal sports centre is to make it available to everyone. Grown men used to travel down from places like Hatfield to use the JVC/O2 Centre, and they'd be back here like a shot if it was replaced.
It doesn't stop there. Arsenal fans often come over from places like Sweden and the first thing they ask is whether it's worth bringing their kit to play at the Arsenal sports centre. I suppose the answer to these tourists is yes, so long as they are prepared to lie about their age and take a 16-mile bus journey along the Great Cambridge Road
I remember when Cheddar cheese was being made everywhere in the world except Cheddar and one day a businessman brought it back to its origins as a boost to tourism. With luck, a like-minded businessman will want to bring football back to Highbury but if he leaves it too late all the land will have been snapped up for private use.
Has anyone ever suggested that an Arsenal sports centre would be hogged by Islington residents? The whole idea of a communal sports centre is to make it available to everyone. Grown men used to travel down from places like Hatfield to use the JVC/O2 Centre, and they'd be back here like a shot if it was replaced.
It doesn't stop there. Arsenal fans often come over from places like Sweden and the first thing they ask is whether it's worth bringing their kit to play at the Arsenal sports centre. I suppose the answer to these tourists is yes, so long as they are prepared to lie about their age and take a 16-mile bus journey along the Great Cambridge Road
Re: Arsenal told to think again - repercussions?
Posted by: Padre Pio (IP Logged)
Date: 18/07/2008 01:17
I have copied Happy Gooners post from anothe thread to here as its so relevant:
Re: CAMPAIGN FOR SPORTS CENTRE BULLETIN No 2 new
Posted by: HappyGooner (86.147.118.219)
Date: 2008:07:17:22:15:40
LIQUIDD TAKE NOTE:
1. There is no indoor footballing facility within Islington that could house the 48 children per session, that the JVC did.
2. How can you quote Clissold park, Finsbury park, Whittington park?
Clissold & finsbury are parks!!!! Weather dependant if sessions take place or not(GRASS), and whittington park now has an astro that is HIRED out.
3. The JVC centre was the only pitch I knew put on a pedestal in the terms of it being 'AT' Arsenal. How great was that for the children...Ive just played football at Arsenal. Be it Children that live local or children travelling from abroad. Coaches can go into schools but there is a huge difference.
4. The centre did not only cover football it was used for tennis,hockey and indoor bowls (Pensioners).
5. As for the money side, why cant the centre be self sufficient? the pitch could be hired out from 6-10pm for paying adults (as per jvc centre) 7 days a week.
6. What we are all forgetting and nobody seems to have raised the point is: Arsenal promised with literature (not verbal) a replacement sports centre. (locals were satisfied with Arsenals offer). As soon as Planning permission was granted, the club pulled on its promise, giving local residents no voice? and to top that Islington council have allowed this to happen.
7. Liquidd think about the bigger picture and who this affects, you only talk about children? you haven't mentioned the pensioner bowlers that used the centre twice a week, or the Visually impaired groups, or the Deaf groups, or homeless groups or over 35s league there on a sunday night, hopefully my point is made.
Re: CAMPAIGN FOR SPORTS CENTRE BULLETIN No 2 new
Posted by: HappyGooner (86.147.118.219)
Date: 2008:07:17:22:15:40
LIQUIDD TAKE NOTE:
1. There is no indoor footballing facility within Islington that could house the 48 children per session, that the JVC did.
2. How can you quote Clissold park, Finsbury park, Whittington park?
Clissold & finsbury are parks!!!! Weather dependant if sessions take place or not(GRASS), and whittington park now has an astro that is HIRED out.
3. The JVC centre was the only pitch I knew put on a pedestal in the terms of it being 'AT' Arsenal. How great was that for the children...Ive just played football at Arsenal. Be it Children that live local or children travelling from abroad. Coaches can go into schools but there is a huge difference.
4. The centre did not only cover football it was used for tennis,hockey and indoor bowls (Pensioners).
5. As for the money side, why cant the centre be self sufficient? the pitch could be hired out from 6-10pm for paying adults (as per jvc centre) 7 days a week.
6. What we are all forgetting and nobody seems to have raised the point is: Arsenal promised with literature (not verbal) a replacement sports centre. (locals were satisfied with Arsenals offer). As soon as Planning permission was granted, the club pulled on its promise, giving local residents no voice? and to top that Islington council have allowed this to happen.
7. Liquidd think about the bigger picture and who this affects, you only talk about children? you haven't mentioned the pensioner bowlers that used the centre twice a week, or the Visually impaired groups, or the Deaf groups, or homeless groups or over 35s league there on a sunday night, hopefully my point is made.
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