AFC Bournemouth has unveiled a detailed timeline for transforming Vitality Stadium from the Premier League’s smallest venue into a 20,000-capacity modern facility.
The project will unfold across multiple phases beginning with the 2025-26 season conclusion, with full completion targeted for 2028.
The Expansion Strategy
Rather than pursuing a new stadium development, Bournemouth opted for comprehensive expansion of its current facility after reacquiring the venue in April 2025.
The project includes:
✓ New 3,000-seat lower tier in the South Stand
✓ Infilled South-East and North-West corners
✓ Internal refurbishment of East and West Stands
✓ New perimeter with relocated turnstiles and ticket office
✓ Enhanced broadcast facilities and media seating
✓ Expanded outer concourse
The result will increase capacity from 11,826—currently the smallest in the Premier League—to approximately 20,000.
The Timeline
Now – Current Phase: Enabling works including new perimeter fence, turnstiles, pedestrian and cycle route revisions, broadcast area creation, and West Stand terrace enclosure.
Summer 2026: South Stand demolition following season conclusion, with construction of new 3,000-seat lower tier and corner infills.
2026-27 Season: Construction on South Stand upper tier continues while matches are played at the stadium.
Summer 2027: North and East Stand extensions begin, along with remaining corner infill work.
2028: Project completion targeted.
For next season (2025-26), the club will gain over 1,500 additional seats through interim improvements while construction planning occurs.
The Planning Process
The full planning application is currently in consultation phase and will be assessed by Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council’s planning committee in early May.
Enabling works already have council approval following submission last month.
Strategic Context
Vitality Stadium’s 11,826 capacity has been a limiting factor for the club’s revenue generation as a Premier League team. Modern Premier League stadiums typically exceed 30,000 capacity, with some approaching 100,000.
Bournemouth’s expansion to 20,000 represents a significant increase but still positions the club with a mid-sized Premier League venue. The expansion enables increased match-day revenue, improved broadcast facilities, and enhanced infrastructure for commercial operations.
The phased approach allows Bournemouth to continue operations during redevelopment while managing construction costs and maintaining competitive operations throughout the transition.
Implications for Club Operations
The three-year timeline means Bournemouth will play through at least one full season (2026-27) with active construction occurring simultaneously.
This requires careful management of:
✓ Match-day operations during construction
✓ Fan access and parking arrangements
✓ Player and staff facilities
✓ Broadcasting logistics
Other Premier League clubs have managed similar multi-phase expansion projects, though the coordination challenge remains significant.