BASINGSTOKE Town chairman Rafi Razzak has been urged to reconsider his plan to build a new stadium.

Borough councillor Gavin James, whose Eastrop ward contains the land next to the Hilton Basingstoke hotel earmarked as the site for the new ground, has written an open letter to the Town chairman, urging him to rethink his plans.

In his letter, Cllr James describes the proposed move as “a huge financial gamble for both the club and the council,” arguing that the taxpayer could be left to pick up the pieces in the long term.

Cllr James puts forward an alternative site, asking Razzak to investigate moving the club to Basingstoke Leisure Park instead.

Razzak’s reaction is now online here – and click here to read Cllr James’ letter in full.