The Government's Public Inquiry into Southend's proposed new stadium stopped sitting yesterday lunch time.

Plans for United's new 22,000 seater stadium at the Fossetts Farm site have been considered over the last two weeks - lasting a total of five and a half days.

Original plans in January 2007 were passed by both Southend and Rochford Councils prior to the Call In, with both Boroughs continuing to be supportive to the application over the duration of the Inquiry.

Over the past fortnight the Inspector has made himself familiar with the Town as a whole, as well as considering the evidence.

As part of this research he will be conducting site visits to both Fossetts Farm and Roots Hall on Wednesday, as well as attending a match to experience first hand the current environment.

Over the next few days there will now be a period of inactivity with the next date being the closing statements from both the Council and then the Club's QC, Christopher Lockhart-Mummery.

This final speech is likely to last around one and a half hours and supporters will be informed nearer the date the precise timing so that they can come along and hear the summary first hand.

Chairman Ron Martin said: "I was particular pleased with the support at the opening of the Inquiry and I urge fans to come along and understand the prospects for the Club's future once more.

"These statements are a culmination of the several months of preparation and presentation to the Inquiry and are designed to provide an overview and resolution of all the issues."

After 16th October the Club will wait whilst the Inspector prepares his detailed report for the Secretary of State.

It is believed that this will be finalised in November, possibly earlier, allowing for the Secretary of State to review and come to a decision.

Although these matters are not an exact science there is a responsibility not to delay and we hope a decision will be forthcoming around Christmas, perhaps early in the New Year, although there are no fast rules.

Club Spokesperson David Scriven added: "Ron was pleased with the proceedings and the many positives and limited negatives, if any.

"We can only now keep our fingers crossed having presented the most robust case possible for the Club's future."

Supporters are reminded that they can still show their support for the application via email.

Full details of how to do this can be found by clicking here.