A Premier League football club is considering expanding its famous ground. Built in 1996, the stadium can accommodate 49,000 fans.
However, following Sunderland AFC’s successful return to the top flight last season, the club are now “exploring” the possibility of expanding the Stadium of Light. The Black Cats finished seventh in the league, securing a spot in the Europa League and sparking record demand for tickets to watch Regis Le Bris’ side. Sunderland chief executive Tom Burwell said internal discussions had taken place about increasing the ground’s capacity and improving the facilities.
“We have an opportunity in our stadium. There are 15,000 people on the waiting list (for season tickets) and we have 54 boxes here and I have 45 boxes on the waiting list,” he told City AM.
“We also have to recognize that we have revenue that is mid-table at the moment, but we are not proposing (an advance) at this time. We have a great relationship with the council, so there are opportunities and plans that we can look at building and improving the stadium.”
Sunderland are incentivized to raise funds through a variety of sources, as Premier League clubs are currently limited to on-pitch spending at 85% of their income, or 70% if they play in Europe. This includes using the stadium for events, concerts and hospitality purposes throughout the year.
Most recently, the Stadium of Light hosted a huge show by iconic British pop group Take That on Tuesday 9th June. They were also joined by The Script and Belinda Carlisle.
Burwell added: “We’re a city-adjacent stadium connected by a brand new pedestrian bridge. And what does that mean we can be? A sports and entertainment venue that’s available 365 days a year.”
“What else can we introduce to drive revenue without spending on stadium expansion? And while that might mean getting the same (fan) benefits, does it mean offering something completely different?
“I’m sitting on the banks of the Wear. Banks on the Wear is also the name of our most exclusive hospitality box. It’s a two Michelin star restaurant and head chef is Tommy Banks. Who would have thought a year ago that Sunderland AFC’s premium stock would include this? And yet it’s completely sold out for the new season.”
The Stadium of Light remains one of the largest grounds in English football, apart from the traditional ‘Big Six’. Expansion will be sustainable if the club continues to establish itself as a regular in European competition.
