It's not even clear whether the Hornets are determined to relocate, especially following their relegation, and yet opposition seems to be growing against the proposed new stadium.

As you may recall, during the pandemic it has first been leaked and then confirmed that Watford FC are looking for a new stadium. The preferred site would be at the Bushey Hall Golf Club, where an opening for change in use is possible.

The club have never called the site their choice or admit to being advanced in planning and yet opposition to the plan has been gaining momentum since the first leak. Over the last couple of months, more than 5,000 people have signed a Conservative party petition calling for Watford FC to be “given the red card” to building a new stadium in Bushey.

Now another appeal against the possible relocation scheme has emerged, this time led by Liberal Democrat councillor Paul Richards. Though much more friendly in tone, Richards' letter is also strictly against the harm that could potentially be done to a significant green area.

He wrote: “We implore you, as the club’s owner, to abandon these plans. Please save Bushey from a disastrous project which would cause irreparable harm, both to out community and our local environment. […] We must stress, that, in every other respect, we have nothing but goodwill towards Watford FC.”

As of today it's not even clear, however, whether Watford FC are still willing to pursue the relocation vision at all. Relegation from Premier League combined with the ongoing coronavirus pandemic means club finances will be under serious stress in the coming months. Phased expansion of Vicarage Road could be preferred over the more expensive scheme, if any investment goes forward at all.