Aston Villa announced plans on Wednesday for expansion to the current stadium, Villa Park. The decision to add seats to the arena was approved by the Birmingham City Council. Increasing the maximum attendance to over 50,000 will now allow Villa to host major international tournaments.
Current capacity at Villa Park is around 42,600. This is now the eighth-largest stadium at the moment in the Premier League. The West Midlands club would need to reach 52,400 to climb above Newcastle United’s St. James’ Park and move up the ladder.
Villa Park expansion opens potential for Euro 2028
Nevertheless, reaching the 50,000 capacity mark could allow Villa Park to host major matches in the near future. Previously, the UK and Ireland shortlisted the stadium as a Euro 2028 hosting venue. UEFA does not have a host for the tournament yet. Still, the United Kingdom and Ireland want to host the tournament.
The first phase of the renovations will include a brand new North Stand, as well as improvements to the existing Trinity Stand. In addition to these upgrades, the club will also introduce Villa Live. This massive multi-purpose area takes over the existing team shop and security lodge.
Upgrades should be a massive boost to the area economy
The announcement thrilled Villa CEO Christian Purslow. “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,” said Purslow.
The club is claiming that the renovations will help generate about $144 million each year to the West Midlands economy. Along with the financial boost, Villa Park will also create hundreds of jobs and help attract more visitors as well.
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