Stadium Industry Updates 26 March 2024

Wembley Stadium pioneers a groundbreaking process for recycling pitches, The initial steel gate has been set up at Everton Stadium, Reviving Glory: Colombes Stadium,Milano Security Chief Raises Alarm on Milan and Inter Stadium Ventures, and much more in our latest Stadium Industry Updates!

Wembley Stadium pioneers a groundbreaking process for recycling pitches.

Wembley Stadium is leading the charge in stadium sustainability by developing a pioneering process to recycle its hybrid pitches, a first in football.

Despite initial doubts, they've successfully extracted plastic from used pitches and repurposed it, even creating benches from recycled materials.

This initiative aligns with their long-standing commitment to environmental responsibility, as seen in their recent unveiling of a five-year sustainability strategy.

By setting an example, Wembley Stadium hopes to encourage other venues across the UK and Europe to adopt similar practices, ultimately reducing environmental impact and benefiting community club

Read more at: https://www.thestadiumbusiness.com/2024/03/22/wembley-stadium-develops-groundbreaking-recyclable-pitch-process/


Charlton Athletic asserts a pioneering feat with the introduction of a youth section at The Valley.

Charlton Athletic is making bold strides in enhancing the matchday experience at The Valley stadium.

Teaming up with the Charlton Athletic Supporters’ Trust (CAST), the club is introducing a dedicated area for fans aged 16 to 20, inspired by successful models observed in Europe.

Additionally, Charlton is set to implement safe standing in the Covered End Upper section, reflecting its commitment to innovation and fan engagement under new ownership by the Global Football Partners (GFP) group.

Read more at: https://www.thestadiumbusiness.com/2024/03/22/charlton-claims-first-with-youth-section-at-the-valley/


The initial steel gate has been set up at Everton Stadium.

In Liverpool, progress continues on Everton FC's new stadium. A significant milestone has been reached as the first steel pedestrian gate has been seamlessly integrated into the historic surroundings at Everton Stadium.

Restoration efforts have focused on rebuilding the Grade II Listed wall around the galvanized steel gate, with meticulous care taken to catalog and number each removed stone for later reinstatement by heritage specialists.

Expert craftsmen from Specialist UK Restorations have meticulously replaced the stones to ensure the wall retains its original appearance.

Manufactured nearby, three main pedestrian access points on Regent Road will serve as vital entryways for visitors to the stadium, reinforcing the site's historical significance

Read more at: https://www.stadiaworld.com/index.php?head=First-steel-gate-installed-at-Everton-Stadium&folder=sites/news&site=news-view&nid=18760


Ratcliffe aims to build a 100,000-capacity stadium for United

Manchester United shareholder Sir Jim Ratcliffe proposes a 100,000-capacity stadium to boost the club's global status, aligning with efforts to revitalize football in northern England.

Ratcliffe, also the founder of Ineos, emphasizes the need for modernization to compete with top European venues like the Estadio Santiago Bernabéu and the Camp Nou.

This initiative coincides with United's recent establishment of a taskforce to explore redevelopment options for Old Trafford and surrounding areas, reflecting a commitment to innovation and excellence in football infrastructure

In April 2022, United appointed Legends International and Populous to lead a team tasked with creating a masterplan for the redevelopment of Old Trafford.

Read more at: https://www.thestadiumbusiness.com/2024/03/20/ratcliffe-targeting-100000-capacity-stadium-for-united/


Bolton Wanderers interested in Safe Standing at the Toughsheet.

Bolton Wanderers are considering introducing safe standing at the Toughsheet Stadium for the 2024/25 season.

The club will send out a questionnaire to gauge supporter opinion and is in discussions with the Supporters’ Trust. Previous indications suggest fans are supportive.

Structural concerns previously hindered discussions, but the current CEO confirmed minimal work would be needed.

This follows a trend in English football, with many clubs adopting safe standing. Fan feedback will guide decisions, and assistance will be provided to affected season ticket holders.

Read more at: https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/sport/24194810.bolton-wanderers-examine-safe-standing-toughsheet/


$225 million renovation of Marvel Stadium has been successfully finalized

The Victoria Government and Australian Football League (AFL) have completed a A$225 million upgrade of Marvel Stadium, turning it into a vibrant "destination venue."

The transformation includes the addition of two new plazas, Stadium Square and City Edge, creating a community hub open seven days a week. The project, which began in February 2022, marks the stadium's first major renovation since its opening in 2000.

The upgrade, supported by building company John Holland, has generated over 1,500 jobs and reinforces the stadium's significance as a major events venue.

The AFL and Victorian Government express appreciation for the partnership in realizing the transformation of Marvel Stadium into a year-round destination

Read more at: https://www.thestadiumbusiness.com/2024/03/22/marvel-stadiums-a225m-revamp-completed/


Reviving Glory: Colombes Stadium Shines Again for 2024 Paris Olympics

The historic Colombes stadium near Paris, once a centerpiece of the 1924 Olympics, has been restored and will host Olympic events again this summer.

The refurbished Yves-du-Manoir stadium in Colombes was inaugurated this week in great style,

Renovations include two new synthetic field hockey pitches and upgraded seating, maintaining its rich legacy. The stadium's history, featuring iconic rivalries and record-breaking moments, is celebrated, including the unveiling of a plaque honoring Eric Liddell, the "Flying Scotsman" of the 1924 Games.

After the Olympics, the stadium will continue to serve as a hub for local sports and events, promising a bright future beyond its storied past.

Read more at: https://www.france24.com/en/france/20240324-2024-games-a-historic-venue-regains-olympic-lustre


Milano Security Chief Raises Alarm on Milan and Inter Stadium Ventures

The chief of security in Milano, Marco Granelli, urges Inter and Milan to reconsider their plans for restructuring San Siro due to serious issues with alternative locations in Rozzano and San Donato.

Granelli emphasizes the importance of staying within the city limits, citing concerns about transportation infrastructure and environmental impact.

He supports a proposal from WeBuild for a radical overhaul of San Siro, believing it offers better opportunities for the clubs. Granelli expresses optimism about the proposal's success and advocates for keeping the clubs within Milano for logistical and practical reasons

Read more at https://onefootball.com/en/news/warnings-for-milan-and-inter-stadium-projects-39253709


Hull City's MKM Stadium to Undergo Makeover

Hull City is planning a series of improvements to the MKM Stadium with the aim of enhancing the matchday experience for supporters and meeting potential Premier League requirements.

The project will include upgrades to seating areas, potentially including the introduction of safe standing sections. Hospitality areas will also be improved, and a brand new pitch will be installed this summer to address current playing surface issues.

If Hull City secures promotion to the Premier League, further improvements will be required to meet top-flight media facility standards. The extent of these improvements will depend on the club's financial situation, which will be bolstered by promotion revenue.

Overall, the goal is to create a stadium and surrounding area that is a source of pride for the city and fans.

Read more at: https://www.hulldailymail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/hull-city-chief-shares-exciting-9181718