Manchester City have revealed plans for an extensive stadium expansion which could see the capacity of the Etihad Stadium increase by up to 12,500. At present the capacity stands at around 47,500, meaning that this extension could see the 60,000 mark crossed upon completion.
In order to prepare for this project, and further assess the requirements any work undertaken should meet, the Premier League club has launched a consultation exercise in which fans and residents within the surrounding area can put their views forward for consideration. The results of this poll will be discussed thoroughly before the planning application is submitted, which should take place before the end of the year.
While no construction firm has yet been confirmed for the job, it is believed that Laing O’Rourke will be drafted in as a partner once the work has been given the go-ahead. The firm certainly seems well-placed to conduct this ambitious project, given that it is currently involved with the club’s Beswick regeneration works.
As it stands, there are two possible courses of action for the contractor – the first option, known as Phase 1, involves the expansion of the South Stand alone. This would allow the club to increase match day capacity to around 54,000, and is the current preferred option.
However, a second proposal has also been put forward which involves the expansion of both the North and South Stands in conjunction, thus increasing capacity to 60,000. Obviously, this work would incur significantly more difficulties in keeping games running smoothly, but would allow Man City to massively increase ticket sales revenue.
Of course, before any work can be undertaken the club must assess the effect upon fans, and Phase 1 would mean the supporters of visiting teams would have to be relocated. Both proposals include an enhanced concourse experience and increased hospitality and commercial choices.
Head of Infrastructure and Corporate Responsibility at Manchester City, Pete Bradshaw, explains; “Manchester City Football Club strives to provide its supporters and visiting fans with one of the best possible matchday experiences in the Premier League and European Football.
“Games are selling out frequently prior to going on open sale and there is rising demand from supporters for more season tickets, matchday tickets and premium seating – this is why we are considering these expansion proposals.
“We will be in touch with every fan who would be potentially affected by the changes in Phase 1, and we encourage fans, residents and anyone who has a point of view to visit the exhibition in person or online and tell us what they think.”
Which option would you prefer for Man City to go ahead with – the smaller expansion plan, Phase 1, or the large scale but lengthier Phase 2?
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