But Bates claimed after the meeting that his role remained intact. Lead fundraisers Chase Manhattan have so far failed to win favour with potential investors, and it is believed constant public criticism of the scheme has undermined their attempts to come up with the cash. 410m is needed before any building work can begin, and Chase are also thought to be asking the FA to contribute 100m themselves. Alternative proposals Demolition work was supposed to begin at the beginning of November but the bulldozers are yet to move in. This course of action is supported by Chase Manhattan, our lead bank, and endorsed by the Government and Sport England.
All parties believe passionately in the project.
They may decide to cut back on the provision for office and banqueting facilities and even revert to the original plans first proposed for the site. Drawn up in 1994, the designs did not contain Lord Foster's proposed 300-foot steel Arch but did integrate the Twin Towers. It is believed redevelopment along these lines would cost much less than the current project, somewhere in the region of 150m. Meanwhile, the famous turf, which was dug up for souvenirs and competition prizes after the last action at Wembley, could be relaid. Lottery regulations, which must be heeded as the project is part lottery funded, stipulate that Wembley can be out of use for only six weeks before redevelopment must begin.