Aston Villa Receives Planning Approval For Villa Park Redevelopment
Aston Villa have welcomed Birmingham City Council’s decision to grant planning permission for phase one of the Club’s redevelopment and expansion of Villa Park.
The project will increase the stadium’s capacity to over 50,000, allowing Villa Park to host major international tournaments and enable its return to the world stage.
The decision comes just a month after Villa Park was shortlisted by the UK and Ireland bid to host the UEFA EURO 2028 Championship.
The first phase of redevelopment at Villa Park will include a brand-new North Stand, enhancements to the existing Trinity Stand and the creation of Villa Live, a new, 6,500 sqm multi-purpose commercial destination to replace the existing shop, academy building and security lodge.
Over 7,000 sqm of new public realm surrounding the stadium’s Witton Lane entrance will also be created, significantly improving accessibility, biodiversity, safety and the overall experience for fans, visitors and the local community.
A vital component of the redevelopment plan is to substantially improve the transport system around the B6 area. The Club is already working in partnership on this with the West Midlands Combined Authority and West Midlands Rail Executive, who have recently commissioned a feasibility design study to establish the upgrades required and ensure Witton Station meets the future demands of the community and increased visitation to Villa Park, Aston Hall and Aston Park.
Securing planning approval at Villa Park is an exciting and vital first step in achieving the Club’s vision to be a world-class venue and a catalyst for the continued redevelopment of the Aston area as part of the wider city masterplan. The Club will continue to work closely with all stakeholders to ensure the elements of the project which Aston Villa does not control, such as transport system and infrastructure works, are prioritised to ensure the best outcome for our fans, local community, the city and the wider region. Progress in these sectors will be key to confirming a timeframe and the sequencing of Villa Park works.
Once operational, the redevelopment of Villa Park will contribute an estimated £119.9m to the West Midlands economy each year, creating hundreds of jobs during and post-construction, and attracting 1.65m visitors to the local area annually.
Aston Villa CEO, Christian Purslow, said: “This is great news firstly for our fans – many of whom are on a waiting list for season tickets; secondly for the Club itself – as our long-term competitive strategy depends on continued growth; and finally for our city and region – with the prospect of a redeveloped Villa Park driving economic regeneration in our local community and bringing back international football to Birmingham.”
Images credit: Aston Villa FC
