TRANMERE Rovers' chairman Peter Johnson has refused to comment on plans for a formal takeover of Prenton Park.

The supporters Trust, which is campaigning to buy the club, will present its formal vision and business plan for the during an Open Meeting before the match with Exeter City this Saturday, March 24.

Among the proposals are a possible three-phase redevelopment of Prenton Park, beginning with an initial upgrade of facilities and followed by the construction of a commercial development behind the Kop, featuring a hotel with conference facilities and retail and leisure outlets, including a supporters' bar and new club shop.

The Trust said yesterday that it will make a formal presentation to Mr Johnson at the end of March ahead of submitting a formal bid to buy the club.

Addressing the club's annual general meeting this morning Mr Johnson said he had no comment to make on the proposal.

He said "Unlike the Trust I like to keep my discussions private.

"It does have a habit of dealing with its progress through the media. My answer is there is no comment."

A hotel and retail complex would be built next to Prenton Park should the Trust take control of the club, supporters will hear this weekend.

The vision and business plan will include a comprehensive package of proposals that the Trust would implement on takeover "to safeguard the future of Tranmere Rovers and set the club on a path of sensible growth."

A third phase would see a comprehensive redevelopment of the club's Main Stand, which will be 50 years old in 2017.

The Trust will make a formal presentation to Peter Johnson at the end of March ahead of submitting a formal bid to buy the club.

Trust Chairman Ben Harrison said yesterday: "These forward-thinking plans are about protecting the future of Tranmere Rovers and establishing a financially viable, step-by-step approach to steadily growing the football club.

"We have already held informal discussions with architects and possible commercial partners who have expressed an interest in working with us, and have undertaken a lot of work to ensure our plans are financially sound and would provide a basis for the club to progress sensibly.

"This is about building a sustainable future for a community-led football club. As well as ensuring that our plans are financially prudent, we would also put in place a firm foundation which guarantees supporters are at the very heart of their club."

During the meeting the Trust will also set out its vision for the governance of the club, a new comprehensive approach to supporter engagement, proposals to enhance the match-day experience, and a series of schemes to improve income streams and develop non-football-related income.

Taking place from 12.30pm in the Belmont Suite at Prenton Park, this will be an open meeting for both members and non-members of the Trust and all Tranmere Rovers supporters are encouraged to attend and learn more about the plans.

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