English Championship football club Fulham has received approval for its plans to redevelop the Riverside Stand at its Craven Cottage home stadium.
Approval was granted following a planning hearing at the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham yesterday (Tuesday).
Consultations with fans and local residents were held in October prior to plans being submitted in December.
The club’s previous Riverside Stand design received planning permission in 2013. The enhanced scheme incorporates the opening of a riverside walk from Putney to Hammersmith, in addition to improved facilities for users on both match and non-match days.
However, the plans for the walkway from Craven Cottage to the banks of the River Thames had been met with opposition from local residents.
The redevelopment plan will increase Craven Cottage’s capacity from 25,700 to 29,600, with the new walkway central to the project. Shops, cafes, and luxury apartments are also part of the ambitious plans.
Fulham, which is currently pushing for promotion to the Premier League, said the main works are now expected to commence in the summer of 2019, with a full timeline of scheduled works announced in due course.
Fulham chief executive Alistair Mackintosh said: “We are all delighted with the outcome of the decision this evening. Craven Cottage has been the home of Fulham Football Club since 1896 and it’s fantastic news for our supporters, our local community and everyone associated with the club.
“Subject to fulfilling the necessary conditions, we are excited that plans to redevelop the Riverside Stand may proceed and improve facilities available throughout the year, helping to deliver our chairman’s long-term vision of providing a world-class venue whilst safeguarding the club’s future at Craven Cottage.”
Image: Fulham FC/Lichfields
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