English soccer club Derby County FC has revealed proposed plans to extend the East Stand of Pride Park Stadium to provide fans with more space, and the opportunity for further independent restaurants and bars.
Rather than expand seating capacity, the application details a two-story construction that would be built onto the side of the stand to create an additional 37,670ft2 of floor space “to provide a pre-match and after-match offer, which enhances the overall Derby County experience.”
Working with Matthew Montague Architects, the club’s application details a structure that will occupy part of the concourse of the existing stadium, as well as an area that is currently used as a car park and pedestrian walkway.
The architects describe the East Stand project as a “21st century extension” to the 20-year-old stadium, and the increased stand space will enable the Rams to accommodate a new fan zone, food court and bars – emulating the USA-style model of encouraging fans to extend their visit to the venue.
“After the game has finished, fans would be welcome to stay in the new complex, they may wish to dine in one of the restaurants, debate the game over a drink or see other results come in,” the planning documents state.
The striking design of the extension is said to reflect the soccer club’s badge.
“The proposed black arching structures strike an imposing elevation as a series of rib colonnades wrap over the main building and support the structural envelope … these curved ram-shaped features will create a contemporary, 21st century extension, benefitting the iconic nature of the stadium.”
November 29, 2017
Written by James Billington
