That is actually my line of thinking, and I was being devils advocate regarding PCC (if you've seen my previous post). It would by the same token be irresponsible and unethical of them to compell a developer to build something that isn't commercially viable (hence why I think they must think it is). I agree with you, if it is built at all, it's more likely to be in a mixed commercial space with something else. There seems to be a range of thinking on here, from it'll never happen, to what's the point of an ice rink..to it's possible. I'm currently sitting on the possible end of the spectrum, but time will tell. Whatever happens I'm sure Hallett and Co have done their research and maths. coyg
Yep - the more I think about it the more a mixed use commercial development at Higher Home Park makes sense - and a hotel could easily be a part of it. I would suggest sorting out the final phase of the Mayflower may also be part of this - even Bobby's Garden. (For me I struggle to see Argyle Green's money going towards training facilities and the like - I just can't see how they would secure a return on their investment).
So Simon has clearly been working on this for a long time - he even gets the key player over to Home Park last March to show him around the real estate. He then ensures that the surrounding site is tidied up - and that it can blend in/complement such a development. All done. He then persuades Argyle Green to invest in PAFC as a first step to creating a very interesting new future. All done.
But our new investors will want a return - despite SH's persuasive skills they do not have the green blood that runs through Simon and the rest of us. They invest the £4M to enable the "project" to get off the ground - enabling PAFC to start the planning and procurement process. Once build ready then perhaps PAFC do the full development on their own with further investment - but how do Argyle Green get a return if done this way?
Perhaps Stage 2 is some form of joint venture established with PAFC as a major shareholder with Argyle Green LLC providing the rest of it? Or even a James Brent involvement? (Either way that approach allows PAFC and Argyle Green to both secure a return and own a tradeable asset. And allows PAFC to be protected in the way that SH is so keen to see).
Who knows - but Simon is a very clever and influential businessman. And luckily for us he does seem very keen to protect the legacy that we all love so much, Apologies for an old chaps musings - but I really do find all of this very exciting!
