Sir Sadiq Khan has given his thoughts on Arsenal’s purported Emirates Stadium scheme while announcing a Violence Reduction Unit partnership with London United.
London’s Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan has warned Arsenal will encounter a number of “obstacles” in their bid to expand their Emirates Stadium. Earlier this month, it was reported that the Gunners were considering proposals to increase the ground’s capacity beyond 70,000 as part of plans believed to be worth £500m.
It currently accommodates 60,700 supporters and was officially opened in July 2006. This development will be well-received by the fans as the fanbase and the club work together to enhance the atmosphere in north London.
Reports also suggest that the club could temporarily relocate to Wembley Stadium during construction works, reflecting Tottenham Hotspur’s arrangements for the new venue.
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Speaking at Wembley Stadium, Mr Khan expressed enthusiasm for the concept, revealing that his Violence Reduction Unit (VRU) is working with the community foundations of all 17 professional football clubs in London on important work to combat violence and exploitation. Nevertheless, the mayor also issued a warning to the current Premier League top teams.
Speaking to our sister title football.london, he said: “At the moment, given Arsenal’s position in the league, they’re kind of walking on water. I can understand why Premier League clubs would want to increase capacity.”
“We know it will bring additional income to the club, but it also means ordinary fans will be able to watch their favorite team. I think West Ham have the largest capacity at the London Stadium.”
“Spurs are not far behind. Arsenal have a huge fan base. There are obviously obstacles in terms of relationships with local councils, local residents and so on.
“But I think anyone who understands the power of football can understand why every club, whether it’s Arsenal, Liverpool, Everton or United, is looking to expand capacity.”
Arsenal’s stadium expansion ambitions have been revealed by the Telegraph. If the Gunners can create a venue that can accommodate more than 70,000 fans, it would be the capital’s largest ground outside Wembley Stadium.
The stadium, which would rank as the second largest stadium in the Premier League after Old Trafford, could soon be demolished and replaced with another huge venue. Additionally, Arsenal’s season ticket waiting list is thought to number around 100,000 people.
Countless supporters have made the list over the years. The stadium expansion would inject millions of dollars into clubs at a time when the Premier League’s Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR) and Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations are tightening their grip on teams.
Despite this, it is also understood that an extension could cost as much as £500m. They have not yet reached the planning permission stage, which reportedly could take around five years.
The London United Network is partnering to share knowledge and best practice, working with organizations across London to understand how football clubs and sport can address prevalent issues, and delivering city-wide programs to improve the lives of Londoners. For more information about London United and associated clubs, please visit: https://londonunited.org.uk/
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