New designs and plans for the £100 million redevelopment and expansion of Villa Park have been submitted for planning. Led by Trivandi and international architecture practice Grimshaw, the proposals increase the capacity of the stadium beyond 50,000 and, as part of the Aston Villa’s commitment to the local community, enable Villa Park to operate as a thriving year-round destination.

The first phase of the proposals focuses on the design of a new North Stand which will accommodate the increased stadium capacity, a series of community and club facilities, and the redevelopment of the public realm. The design, a distinct change from the gated Villa Park of today, dissolves the boundary between the stadium and its surrounding streetscape, transforming the fan and visitor experience and enhancing the civic focus of the club.

Villa Park is one of the oldest recognised football venues in the UK, and the new design takes reference from the 125-year history and the heritage of the surrounding area.

The new North Stand matches the height of the renowned Holte End opposite, whilst its roof form is carefully shaped to respond to the surrounding context of the site. Articulated brickwork and metal cladding respond to the rich industrial heritage of Aston, with facades punctuated with entrances that open onto the generous new pedestrian concourse – Villa Way.

This connection between the stadium, club and community is exemplified in a new public space, Villa Way, which will run between the stadium and a new building, Villa Live. This new facility accommodates the box office, retail store, multi-use event hub, fan experience and café / bar spaces.

The car-free environment of Villa Way will ultimately form part of active routes around the stadium and beyond, laying foundations for future connections to Aston Hall and the new Brookvale Inner City Training Academy, currently under development, as well as local transport links.