Liverpool Football Club have released detailed expansion plans for its stadium in Anfield, Liverpool, and is urging the public for feedback on its renderings.
Liverpool first announced plans of redeveloping the stadium in October 2012. The club had decided that they would renovate and expand the existing structure rather than build a new one near Stanley Park. LFC also said that it would work together with Your Housing Group and the City Council to re-create the space.
Liverpool expects to submit the plans by the summer and reportedly wants to include public feedback in its refined version. The club will also hold an exhibition featuring the renderings this week.
"As part of our proposed stadium redevelopment project, we have unveiled the detail of our ambitious plans for an expanded Main Stand and Anfield Road stand and are embarking on a consultation process which will shape and inform our planning application," Ian Ayre, Liverpool FC managing director said in a statement.
"In order to move forward with our expansion plans we need to have certainty that we can navigate the complex planning process and secure the support of the community, local home owners, businesses and other key stakeholders. This consultation exercise is an important part of this process," he added.
The Plans
The expansion will be divided into two phases.
The first phase is to extend seating capacity at the main stand, which could see an additional 8,500 seats and accommodate a total of 21,000 people. That would take the stadium capacity to 54,000. The new main stand will have three tiers, with the lowest tier accommodating a larger player terminal. The tier will also have a new media area. The stand will also be wheelchair-friendly. Other operational areas will also be expanded.
The second phase will include the expansion of the Anfield Road Stand, which is expected to increase capacity by 4,800 seats.
Other additions will include a new club shop in the premise, ticket collection booths and a prayer room too. The stadium is exploring avenues to merge public transport tickets with match tickets! An expanded corporate area is also a part of the plan. Expect a lot of open public spaces and improved facilities.
"This is another important step in our ambitions to transform the Anfield area, bringing new jobs, investment and housing. The overall regeneration of Anfield will see £260m ($436 million) invested in the local community and will deliver hundreds of jobs - Liverpool Football Club's proposals for the stadium are a key part of this," Joe Anderson, mayor of Liverpool stated.
"We are all committed to delivering a brighter future for Anfield and the club's exhibition is a clear signal that real progress is being made with all our plans."
Liverpool have put out an online feedback form as well. You can leave your opinions and comments here.
