Villa Park regeneration plans submitted

The landmark plans to regenerate Villa Park and the surrounding area have now been submitted. If approved, the project is expected to create almost 2,000 construction jobs, as well hundreds of roles upon completion.The first phase includes a new North Stand, as well as enhancements to the existing Trinity Stand, which will involve capacity for the stadium increasing to more than 50,000.The development also comprises improvements to the fan experience through an upgraded food and beverage offering, enhanced hospitality packages and improved connectivity.Aston Villa recently completed a public consultation that ran in June and July, in which almost 10,000 residents and businesses, stakeholders and fans had their say on the proposals.More than 1,700 additional construction and operational jobs would be created by the scheme.Meanwhile, 125 FTE roles are anticipated to be available on-site at the stadium and Villa Live, in addition to 150 off-site.A statement filed on behalf of the applicant with Birmingham City Council said: “Aston Villa Football Club has been in its current ground since 1897. The stadium does not just provide a venue for football matches, it provides a unique facility in which to host and run major events as well as programmes for the local community.The enhancement of the existing stadium and through the new venue at Villa Live, the club and its foundation will be able to deliver further tangible benefits to its fans, the local community, and ensure Villa Park realises it’s potential as a major international sporting and leisure venue.”