The Millwall Community Trust (MCT) is under serious threat, following Lewisham Council’s Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) of the land surrounding Millwall’s stadium.
On December 13th, according to the Council, the Club contacted them for the first time stating concerns surrounding the future of the MCT, just days before the final CPO decision was to be made on December 15. Deputy Mayor, Councillor
Alan Smith, stated, “We believe protections are in place, but we want to be confident that if the CPO proceeds, appropriate protections are in place to protect the MCT.”
The Club has grown increasingly concerned that the CPO will have a devastating impact on the MCT, their Academy and the local community. Millwall believes current proposals by offshore developers, Renewal, to add a Sporting Village with new facilities, does not protect the club’s Community Scheme and Academy status.
Richard White, MCT Health and Community Manager, said, “The word community is so important. At the Trust, we are engaging with over 1600 young people weekly in Lewisham and Southwark,” which shows that the MCT plays an integral part in the community.
Millwall Supporters Club’s, Ayse Smith, said, “Its good it’s been deferred, because it’s not just about the Club, it’s the entire community”.
After the meeting was adjourned, the final CPO decision is expected to be made on January 11.
