Portsmouth FC: Bridge wanted to redevelop stadium moves closer

Portsmouth FC owner Michael Eisner (left) previously said the bridge was needed to redevelop Fratton Park

A proposed walkway for football fans which could unlock development has won initial funding, an MP has said.

The money previously caused a dispute between Portsmouth FC owner Michael Eisner and Network Rail.

The rail body said it would not pay for a footbridge in order to "unlock the redevelopment of the stadium", while Mr Eisner called the body "irresponsible".

Portsmouth South MP Stephen Morgan said the club, the council and a property firm would fund a feasibility study.

Network Rail said it should not be funding stadium redevelopment

The company involved - M7 Real Estate - owns The Pompey Centre, a retail park adjacent to the ground.

The Labour MP said: "[It brings] us one step closer to improving infrastructure links from Fratton station to Fratton Park and to delivering the regeneration that the surrounding area deserves.

"With support at the highest level, we will now be meeting with government officials to explore future funding streams to make this project a reality."

He said the walkway would relieve congestion on Goldsmith Avenue and encourage rail travel.

Mr Eisner wants to redevelop the North Stand at Fratton Park

Previously Mr Eisner said the club's North Stand could not be redeveloped without the new walkway.

Speaking in August 2023, he said: "I am frustrated with a company [Network Rail] that won't spend £15,000 to do something that is so obvious."

In its latest statement, the firm said it was pleased that funding had been secured for a feasibility study.

A spokesman said: "We remain very supportive of this ambition and have already invested some money into early investigations."

On Tuesday, Pompey sealed promotion to the Championship with a 3-2 win over Barnsley at Fratton Park.

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