Aston Villa has received approval from Birmingham City Council to begin its long-awaited North Stand redevelopment at Villa Park. The redevelopment is set to increase the stand’s capacity and modernise the stadium, ensuring it meets the highest standards for fans and events.
North Stand redevelopment project factsheet
-
Stadium: Villa Park, Birmingham
-
Stand: North Stand
-
Capacity increase: North Stand to exceed 12,000 seats
-
Overall stadium capacity: Over 50,000 seats
-
Design: Adapt-and-reuse by Grimshaw Architects
-
Estimated cost: Around £100 million
-
Construction start: 2026
-
Completion: Second half of 2027, in time for EURO 2028
The North Stand redevelopment will follow Grimshaw Architects’ “Adapt-and-reuse” approach, allowing work to take place without losing seats during the football season. This method replaces earlier plans for a full rebuild, which were shelved due to the impact on matchday capacity.
The modernised stand will not only increase seating but also enhance facilities for fans, hospitality, and accessibility. The project is also expected to transform the Northern Precinct surrounding Villa Park, providing improved public spaces and a more welcoming environment for supporters.
Aston Villa executive chairman Nassef Sawiris described the council’s approval as a significant milestone. He said the redevelopment would help Villa Park evolve into a “world-class sports and entertainment venue,” improving the club’s ability to compete both domestically and in European competitions.
Work is scheduled to start in 2026, with full completion expected by the second half of 2027. This timeline ensures that Villa Park will be ready to host matches at EURO 2028, which is being co-hosted across several European cities.
Modern upgrade preserves Villa Park heritage
The £100 million project reflects Aston Villa’s ambition to enhance its stadium experience while maintaining its historic character. Fans can expect a modernised stand, increased capacity, and improved matchday facilities, all without disruption to the club’s ongoing fixtures.
Grimshaw Architects’ design balances modernity with preservation, adapting the existing structure rather than demolishing it. This strategy reduces costs, limits environmental impact, and keeps Villa Park operational throughout construction.
The redevelopment marks a new chapter for Aston Villa and Villa Park, signalling the club’s commitment to providing world-class facilities for players, fans, and visitors alike. With the North Stand upgrade, Villa Park will remain a key landmark in English football while preparing for major international tournaments.
Like Aston Villa’s North Stand redevelopment, Everton has completed its own state-of-the-art stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock. Hill Dickinson Stadium offers insights into modern stadium design, capacity expansion, and fan-focused amenities in England’s top-flight football.
