Approval lined up for Villa Park regeneration plans

Plans to regenerate Villa Park and the surrounding area with the aim of creating jobs and establishing the site as a “world-class entertainment venue” have been recommended for approval ahead of a planning committee meeting next week.Aston Villa Football Club are seeking planning permission for a new North Stand, as well as enhancements to the existing Trinity Stand, which will involve capacity for the stadium increasing to 50,065.The development also comprises improvements to fan experience through an upgraded food and beverage offering, enhanced hospitality packages and improved connectivity.Villa Live, a commercial destination venue and community space, would be introduced. The site is expected to include the club shop, food and drink outlets and areas dedicated to showing Aston Villa Football Club’s heritage and history.It is forecast that the project would create 125 FTE jobs at the stadium and Villa Live, along with 150 off-site roles as a result of additional visitor expenditure, supply chain expenditure and induced employment.This application forms part of the first phase of this regeneration, with the club having committed to a wider masterplan for the area.A statement filed on behalf of the applicant said: “This project will establish Villa Park as a world-class entertainment venue, building on the success of the recent Commonwealth Games in making the city an international leisure and sporting destination, able to compete with other major cities.”The proposed development represents a new chapter for Aston Villa FC and a significant platform for further regeneration of the wider area.”Birmingham City Council’s planning committee will review the proposals on 22 December.A report for the committee said: “The application delivers a sustainable, high-quality development that meets wider aspirations of Birmingham being promoted as an international city.”