AFC Bournemouth have offered supporters a detailed update on the future of the Vitality Stadium following confirmation of delays to their expansion plans.
Despite the setback, the club insist progress is being made, and long-term ambition remains firmly intact.
What is the latest news on Bournemouth's Vitality Stadium expansion plans?
Bournemouth president of business operations Jim Frevola has explained why elements of the Vitality Stadium redevelopment will take longer than first planned.
The Cherries confirmed earlier this week that the new south stand will not be fully completed in time for the start of next season. While the stadium is still expected to grow by around 1,500 seats this summer, only the bottom tier of the south stand is likely to be in place initially, subject to final planning approval.
Construction on the remainder of the south stand will continue throughout the 2026/27 campaign, alongside infilling of the south-east and north-west corners. Further extensions to the north and east stands, plus the remaining corners, are scheduled for completion in summer 2026.
Frevola stressed that the delays are the result of multiple factors rather than any single issue. These include extended planning processes, revised safety compliance linked to UEFA regulations, and unexpected groundworks such as checks for potential unexploded World War II ordnance.
He also acknowledged that learning from other clubs across the Premier League had highlighted how common such hurdles are.
Supporters were also given reassurance that a temporary roof is planned for the partially completed south stand, while the introduction of a new membership scheme has been pushed back by a year to align with a more complete stadium.
FGG says: An encouraging update for Bournemouth fans amid recent delays
While the delays are frustrating, this update from the club shows that Bournemouth are prioritising quality and long-term compliance over simply rushing the project.
The commitment to invest properly and improve Cherries fans' experience is clear, so the Vitality Stadium’s transformation still feels very much on track despite this small bump in the road.