The proposed Welsh Rugby Union takeover of Pro12 side Cardiff Blues "is off," according to Simon Thomas of WALES ONLINE. Blues Chair Peter Thomas "revealed earlier this month that he was looking to hand the franchise over to the governing body from July 1." But now that is "off the agenda." The Blues board announced it will not be pursuing the option. In an open letter, Blues CEO Richard Holland said, "It was mentioned at the recent AGM by myself that talks had taken place with the WRU to explore how they could assist us during the potential redevelopment of Cardiff Arms Park, which led to further discussions regarding taking control of the rugby operation both on a temporary and permanent basis. ... Following amicable discussions with our governing body, I can now confirm the Cardiff Blues Board have made the unanimous decision not to pursue this option further" (WALES ONLINE, 5/24). The BBC reported stadium redevelopment plans "rest on Blues coming to an agreement over renewing their lease with Cardiff Athletic Club," which ends in Jan. '22. That agreement "appears to be a step closer," with a CAC spokesperson saying, "I can confirm that negotiations are ongoing and we hope to call an EGM [extraordinary general meeting] in the not too distant future." CAC is a body made up of Cardiff tennis, bowls, hockey and cricket clubs which has a clubhouse at the Arms Park. Blues execs "have previously expressed a wish to redevelop their Arms Park home" into a 15,000-capacity stadium (BBC, 5/24). Thomas also reported a number of Cardiff Blues supporters "expressed their deep unrest about what it would mean for the future of the team." In particular, there were concerns over "whether the Cardiff name would be retained in the event of a WRU takeover," especially as Pro12 side Newport Gwent Dragons "is being ditched" amid the WRU "assuming control" of the team. Some fans "were even talking about trying to claim refunds" for season tickets which had already been bought for next term (WALES ONLINE, 5/24).