WREXHAM have revealed plans for their new Kop stand.
Plans have been in place for several years to give the STōK Cae Ras stadium a revamp.
The old Kop was knocked down in January 2023 and replaced with a temporary structure, but a new stand is finally on the way after a couple of setbacks including planning permission being denied by the council on environmental grounds.
Designed by world-renowned firm Populous, who worked on Wembley and the Tottenham Hotspur stadium, the new stand will embody Wrexham – the city and the club.
It will have a 5,500 capacity with potential to increase further, and includes safe standing.
There will also be accessible seating, hospitality and include player and official facilities, so fans will be able to welcome their team onto the pitch through a player tunnel in the stand.
It will also be built in compliance with Uefa Category 4 stadium requirements, which means it will be able to host European Under-19 Championship matches in 2026, with the tournament hosted by Wales.
Wrexham state the design of the stand will amplify noise created by supporters and it will be high enough for fans to see it from the city centre.
The exterior pays tribute to the city’s “Terracottapolis” nickname, with the brickwork reminiscent of the red brick used in the local are.
It will also feature two dragons carved into the brick, representing the two dragons on the Wrexham crest.
Michael Williamson, Wrexham CEO, said: “The new Kop Stand marks a special moment in the history of the STōK Cae Ras, allowing us to restore the traditional four-sided enclosure of the stadium, providing new and improved facilities and experiences for our fans and visitors to the stadium alike.
“The distinctive design of the new Kop Stand embodies the history and heritage of Wrexham – rooted in the local community creating a timeless, authentic piece of civic architecture that complements other landmarks.
“It will provide an iconic landmark standing at the gateway to the city giving it a true sense of place.
“The stand reflects the key role the football club can play in the rejuvenation and redevelopment of the city through its role in the Wrexham Gateway Project.
“The upgrading of facilities to meet UEFA Category 4 specifications are central to our wider vision of bringing international sport back to Wrexham and the benefit this will bring to the local community of hosting these events in North Wales.”
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