Midlands mayor, Andy Street, has announced the approval of accelerated plans for the £100 million expansion of Villa Park. Aston Villa is set to commence the expansion next summer, aiming to boost the stadium’s capacity from 42,000 to over 50,000 by May 2026. The demolition work on the North Stand is scheduled post the Foo Fighters concert on June 27, 2024.

Street highlighted the transformative vision for the broader Witton area and mentioned the recent commissioning of a study into Witton Station. Birmingham City Council had granted planning approval in December 2022 for a new multi-purpose venue behind the North Stand. However, some modifications to the initial proposals were introduced earlier this year. The ‘Villa Live’ building, initially designed to feature a club shop, food courts, and spaces celebrating the club’s history, has been put on hold. Instead, the focus has shifted to enhancing the Academy building along Witton Lane, which will be transformed into a fan zone named “The Warehouse.” This revamped space will house a bar, big screen, food courtyard, and a multi-use event floor, including a microbrewery. The facility will also host community events and indoor football tournaments.

The existing Villa store, ticket office, security gatehouse, and broadcasting compound are slated for demolition. Club owners, Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens, are dedicated to transforming Villa Park into a premier sporting and entertainment hub in the upcoming years.