Jaw-dropping £300m redevelopment of the Etihad given green light

In a groundbreaking move that promises to revolutionise the fan experience, Manchester City Football Club has received the green light from the Manchester City Council’s planning committee for its ambitious development plans at the Etihad Stadium.

Anticipated to commence in November 2023, this visionary project is set to transform the iconic stadium into a state-of-the-art entertainment hub, complete with expanded facilities, a sky bar, and a breathtaking stadium roof walk experience.

Central to the redevelopment is the expansion of the North Stand, which will see the addition of a larger, single upper tier above the existing lower tier.

60,000 Capacity at the Etihad

This design will elevate the stadium’s overall capacity to more than 60,000, providing even more fans with the opportunity to witness the magic of Manchester City live on the pitch.

The proposed all-weather facilities, seamlessly integrated into the stadium, will form the heart of the new Etihad experience.

City Square Fan Zone

Visitors and loyal fans alike can look forward to a covered City Square fan zone, boasting a generous capacity for 3,000 people and an incredible array of food and drink outlets.

The City Square will undoubtedly become the focal point of pre and post-match celebrations.

As if that wasn’t enough, Manchester City is sparing no expense in ensuring its fans get the royal treatment.

Plans for a new club shop and museum will immerse supporters in the club’s history and achievements.

A particularly exciting feature of the redevelopment is the awe-inspiring sky bar, poised above the upper tier of the North Stand.

Offering sweeping views of the pitch, this exclusive venue will allow fans to enjoy a match-day experience like no other, combining exhilarating football action with the allure of a high-class establishment.

The Etihad Stadium Roof Walk

For those seeking more than just a match-day thrill, the stadium roof walk experience promises to be a highlight.

Imagine strolling atop the Etihad Stadium roof, a bird’s-eye view of the pitch below, and the sheer exhilaration of being immersed in the heart of Manchester City’s footballing heritage.

Not stopping at football-focused amenities, Manchester City has planned for a 400-bed hotel within the stadium premises.

The hotel will cater to fans and visitors alike, offering a premium stay in the heart of the action.

Coupled with workspace facilities, this development will provide ample opportunities for business and leisure travellers to embrace the energy of the city.

Though the scale and ambition of this project are monumental, Manchester City say they are well-prepared to manage the construction phase efficiently.

The club acknowledges that some season ticket holders in the North Stand may need to be temporarily relocated during the 2024-25 campaign.

However, they have reassured fans that all necessary arrangements will be made to ensure minimum disruptions and seamless seat relocation options.

Danny Wilson, Managing Director of Manchester City Operations

Speaking on the momentous approval of the planning application, Danny Wilson, Managing Director of Manchester City Operations, expressed his delight.

“We are delighted that Manchester City Council’s planning committee has approved the Club’s proposals for a best-in-class fan experience and year-round entertainment and leisure destination at the Etihad Stadium.

“This development will not only enable the Club to enhance and expand its offering to fans and visitors on both matchday and non-matchday, but it will also create lasting long-term economic and social benefits for our local community, building on the regeneration work City Football Group has delivered in East Manchester since 2008.”

The club’s fan and community consultation earlier this year played a vital role in shaping the development plans, ensuring that the project resonates with supporters.

By incorporating valuable feedback, Manchester City has further strengthened its bond with the local community, building on the legacy of regeneration work initiated by the City Football Group in East Manchester since 2008.

The main construction work is set to begin in November.

As the Etihad Stadium undergoes its transformation, the anticipation for the 2025-26 football season is higher than ever.

Manchester City’s bold vision for a premier entertainment and leisure destination promises to set new standards in sports experiences, further cementing the club’s position as a global footballing powerhouse.

As the city gears up for the ultimate footballing spectacle, Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium stands poised to become more than just a sporting arena; it is destined to be an immersive and unforgettable experience.