Last week's momentous decision by the Olympic Park Legacy Company to make us preferred bidder for the Olympic Stadium after the 2012 Games marks just the start of what will be a hugely significant period in the club's history.
Rest assured, we will be stepping up our consultation with supporters - now that we have the opportunity to do so under the OPLC process. Until now we have been regularly updating people and asking for fan feedback via articles on whufc.com, emails to supporters and the matchday programme - and we are grateful to everyone who responded.
Thousands of replies have been received to date - especially through our dedicated email address at [email protected]. Rest assured, we have taken every single comment on board but we look forward to receiving many more in the weeks and months to come. Please continue to use this address as your direct line into the club for all things regarding the Olympic Stadium. It is the perfect way for you to have your say over the proposed move in time for the 2014/15 season.
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West Ham United Vice-Chairman Karren Brady said: "The most important thing for us now is not just deliver on the promises that we've made to the OPLC, but to really engage with the supporters, take them to the stadium, show them what we're going to do and explain to them how and why it is so good for us and really make them a part of everything that we're going to do."The next steps after mayoral and Government ratification of the OPLC decision include our intention to start supporter tours and also revealing more details behind our bid. We will also look to stage fan forums at an appropriate time and implement the planned supporter advisory board that will truly give an extra voice in the key decisions affecting the club.
A major consideration is how to leave behind the Boleyn Ground, and to make sure that we do it in the proper and respectful way. We would make the Olympic Stadium a home from home. More than just memories will come on the short journey from Upton Park to Stratford - whether it is the John Lyall Gates or the commemorative bricks.
Similarly we will be very respectful in terms of the memorial areas at the front of the Boleyn Ground, and will endeavour to respond to supporter wishes in respect of honouring their loved ones.
Rest assured, as a club run by fans for fans, we will be guided by you. We hope to announce details of some new fan forums soon but please contact the club at any time should you want information. We also appreciate that the Olympic Stadium is not the only matter occupying fans.
Back in December in the Manchester City programme, we revealed details of a supporter consultation panel and look out for more news in the weeks to come. This would be an independent body with a direct voice to influence and suggest on key areas such as the stadium move, kit design and all fan-based issues. You can email [email protected] to find out more.