PROMOTER Matt Ford has moved to allay concerns that the development of Poole Stadium could adversely affect Pirates.

The Wimborne Road boss confirmed he had held talks with site operators Stadia UK, whose CEO Clark Osborne earlier this month revealed initial proposals would be “anchored around speedway” and in the public domain by the end of September.

Stadia UK, which comes under the banner of Gaming International Ltd, is at the centre of a protracted development of Swindon’s headquarters, while another of its subsidiaries has been criticised for lacking transparency over a potential takeover of Torquay United Football Club.

In a recent interview with Speedway Star magazine, Ford said it was “absolutely crucial” any work would not prevent racing at the Dorset track and that a temporary closure during speedway season was “something I couldn’t possibly think about”.

But with plans yet to be published by Borough of Poole, the Pirates chief insists dialogue is still at a tentative stage.

Ford told the Daily Echo: “We cannot say too much at the moment because none of the plans are set in stone.

“Ideas and proposals are going back and forth with interested parties but things are still at an early stage. As and when things develop, we will have a clearer idea of what we are dealing with.

“We would be fully supportive of plans to use the land both in and around the stadium for any development that would benefit the town.

“But from our point of view, the club’s ability to operate cannot be compromised by the development and we will make sure we get that message across during any talks.”