July 18 – Premier League Bournemouth have unveiled further plans for the redevelopment of their home ground, the Vitality Stadium, with an expansion that will see capacity rise to approximately 20,200.
Currently the smallest stadium in the Premier League at just 11,379 seats, the upgrade reflects the club’s ambition to qualify for European competition. Project cost is between £80-90 million.
The club described the project as a “major milestone” in its journey to becoming a top-performing Premier League side, aims to bridge that gap — delivering not only scale but substance.
The redevelopment will unfold in three stages: Enabling Works, Phase 1, and Phase 2. A planning application for enabling works will be submitted in summer 2025, with construction due to begin in Q1 2026. Phase 1 and 2 will follow closely behind, with planning applications submitted in autumn 2025. Phase 1 construction is scheduled to start in Q1/Q2 2026, even as the stadium remains in active use, while Phase 2 will begin in Q3 2027.
The plan includes the demolition of the current South Stand, to be replaced by a new 7,000-seat grandstand, alongside the infill of all four corners, creating around 1,440 additional general admission seats. The North and East Stands will be expanded both vertically and horizontally, further increasing capacity and improving fan facilities.
Other improvements will reshape the entire stadium footprint: a new stadium perimeter and turnstiles, ticket office, a revamped fan zone, and an upgraded outside broadcasting area. Existing floodlights will be relocated to align with the new structure, and the surrounding infrastructure will also be modernised, including cycle and pedestrian routes, parking layouts, and vehicle circulation paths.
The development has won backing from local authorities. “The Council recognises how valuable AFC Bournemouth is to Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, with its continued success on the pitch, and their support for our local communities,” said Councillor Rich Herrett. “We have a positive relationship with the football club and look forward to working with them on their plans to invest in the area and improve the matchday experience for fans at Vitality Stadium.”
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at moc.l1752855361labto1752855361ofdlr1752855361owedi1752855361sni@g1752855361niwe.1752855361yrrah1752855361