AFC Bournemouth stadium expansion plans approved

AFC Bournemouth's plans to expand the capacity of the Premier League's smallest stadium to more than 20,000 seats have been approved by councillors.

The club wants to redevelop the Vitality Stadium as it prepares for European football next season.

The plans involve replacing one stand and extending and upgrading the others at the ground.

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council's Eastern Area Planning Committee unanimously approved the proposals on Friday.

The redevelopment would increase the stadium's capacity from about 11,300 to more than 20,000 seats.

Under the plans, the south stand would be demolished and rebuilt, while the north and east stands would be expanded and corners infilled to provide more than 9,000 additional seats and hospitality facilities.

The phased works would also create a new perimeter fence line, turnstiles, fan zone, ticket office, refreshment kiosks, outside broadcasting and media facilities.

The redevelopment is expected to begin during the close season ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.

AFC Bournemouth president of business Jim Frevola told councillors the redevelopment was necessary if the club wanted to remain competitive.

"If it does not happen I don't think you'll ever see an 11,268-seat stadium in the Premier League again," he said.

He added that "timing is critical" because European football was now "a reality" for the club.

The Cherries will feature in the league phase of either the Champions League or Europa League, with the exact competition to be decided on the final day of the Premier League season on Sunday.

Residents raised concerns about the impact on neighbouring homes, parking and congestion.

Speaking on behalf of Middleton Gardens residents, Nick Day said the expansion would bring the East Stand "eight metres closer" to homes.

Claire Matthews, whose home backs onto the North Stand, said the development would have an "overbearing" impact on nearby properties and urged councillors to defer the application.

Councillors said the club had listened to community concerns around parking, but added that both the club and council would need to manage the impact of thousands of additional supporters travelling to matches.

Committee member Patrick Canavan said the expansion was "massive for Bournemouth" but warned it would also have "massive consequences" for local infrastructure and parking.

A litter strategy will also need to be submitted by the club as part of the planning conditions.