The New Saints FC’s plans to transform their stadium took a major step forward today, with the club continuing to improve their facilities by hosting a project commencement ceremony at Park Hall Stadium to mark the breaking of ground in the construction of two new stands.
The ceremony was attended by current first-team players, Chris Marriott and Blaine Hudson, Club Secretary, Will Catterall, as well as some of the project’s key planning, construction and engineering team.
The plans, which have been approved by Shropshire Council, will see the construction of a brand new cantilever 800+ seated stand, which will be built alongside The Venue building, alongside an extension to the existing stand behind the Woodland End goal.
The new development, which will cost approximately £1 million, has been partly funded by the Premier League Stadium Fund and will ensure that Park Hall Stadium complies with the current UEFA Category Two Stadium Infrastructure Regulations, which will mean it can continue to host Qualifying Rounds One and Two in UEFA Club Competitions next season.
The works are expected to be finished by the end of June, in readiness for the UEFA Qualifying rounds in July, and will create additional jobs for operational and hospitality staff within the local community. The changes to the stadium will see some of the older seating removed and with the creation of the new stand, Park Hall’s seated capacity will increase from 1,034 to 1,600.
On the pitch, The Saints are on the verge of winning the JD Cymru Premier for the 15th time, which will see them qualify for the UEFA Champions League again next season.
TNS Chairman Mike Harris said:
“This is a momentous day. One that we have all been waiting for. I would like to thank Shropshire Council for their continued support around the stadium redevelopment.
“The stadium’s development is crucial to maintaining the club’s status domestically and in Europe. In the past, we’ve had to play big European games at neutral grounds across Wales, but now with the upgrades, we will be able to continue competing against Europe’s best teams at Park Hall and put Oswestry right on the map in terms of European football.”
He added: “We’re more than just an elite football club. The new developments will overhaul Park Hall, transforming the match day experience and providing improved facilities for the local community to benefit from. I want the club and stadium to be the centre of the local community. We (TNSFC) have a role to play, and we want to use the power of football to inspire and help people from all walks of life.”
