A NEW owner for Colchester United is likely to help the push for the town's long-awaited community stadium, it was claimed yesterday.Robert Davidson, leader of Colchester Borough Council, welcomed news that entrepreneur Robbie Cowling had bought the club from club chairman Peter Heard.

By Roddy Ashworth

A NEW owner for Colchester United is likely to help the push for the town's long-awaited community stadium, it was claimed yesterday.

Robert Davidson, leader of Colchester Borough Council, welcomed news that entrepreneur Robbie Cowling had bought the club from club chairman Peter Heard.

Mr Davidson also said he was pleased that Mr Heard would remain in his position on the board.

Mr Heard has been an important contributor to discussions about the community stadium, which it is hoped will be built on land at Cuckoo Farm in the north of Colchester.

“I have been reassured to hear that Robbie Cowling wants Peter Heard to stay,” Mr Davidson said.

“Certainly he is going to stay on the shadow stadium board, along with chief executive Marie Partner and other representatives of the club.

“Personally I am pleased Mr Heard has found a new backer who will give the club a better chance of improving their performance in the Championship League.

“As regards the stadium, I believe that Robbie Cowling can only be good news.

“There is more of a guarantee of a long-term future for the club and that is important for the project.”

Tim Young, leader of the council's Labour group, also welcomed Mr Cowling's backing for the club.

“I think it is good news. Anyone bringing fresh ideas and investment must be good news for the club and the stadium project.

“I imagine the council will make contact with him in due course to see what he is bringing to the party, but I see this as a positive move that will give the stadium project some much-needed impetus.”

The council's Liberal Democrat leader, Terry Sutton - also an associate director of Colchester United - said he believed Mr Cowling's presence would aid the project.

“I am extremely pleased Robbie Cowling has taken over as majority shareholder,” he said.

“I have worked with him in the past and know he is very enthusiastic about football per se.

“On the subject of the stadium project, I am sure there will be lots he brings to the table that will enhance the aspirations we all have for the community stadium.”

n What do you think? Will the takeover of the Colchester U's by internet millionaire Robbie Cowling be good for the club? Vote in our online opinion poll on www.eadt.co.uk

roddy.ashworth@eadt.co.uk