Bournemouth suffer ‘unfortunate’ stadium setback as revised construction timeline revealed

Bournemouth have confirmed they have revised their construction timeline for the Vitality Stadium's redevelopment project.

The Cherries planned to build a new South Stand lower tier following the conclusion of the 2025-26 campaign. The new lower tier and the plan to fill in the associated corners was set to increase the ground's capacity by 1,500 ahead of next season.

However, Bournemouth have now revealed they have adjusted those plans following the delay of a council planning committee meeting. The meeting was initially scheduled for May 11, but it has since been pushed back to the end of the same month.

The Cherries have now unveiled their new set of priorities for this summer's work:

• Establishment of the permanent Outside Broadcast compound and associated infrastructure
• Service diversions (including utilities and supporting infrastructure)
• Pedestrian and cycle route diversions, ensuring continued safe access and compliance
• Installation of new perimeter fencing and turnstile arrangements
• Delivery of the West Stand wing extensions

They will also push ahead with the construction of the north-west and south-east corner infills, which will increase the capacity by 800, rather than the initial plan of 1,500.

What is Bournemouth's new South Stand plan?

In regard to the South Stand, Bournemouth will begin construction on the upper tier during the 2026-27 campaign, as long as they receive the necessary planning approval. Work will then begin on the bottom tier at the end of next season.

The club has confirmed that they will be unable to offer new 2026-27 season tickets to max points holders due to the change of plans to the redevelopment timetable. However, max points holders will get first priority for new season tickets once the capacity increase makes it plausible.

FGG says: Unfortunate part of redevelopment project

Like many redevelopment projects, Bournemouth have been presented with a hurdle with the news that they will have to push back their timeline for construction work on the South Stand.

However, they have come up with an alternative plan and communicated in detail to their fanbase, who will appreciate the club's openness even if they are left disappointed by the delay.

The most important detail is that Bournemouth are continuing with their plans to upgrade their stadium, which will reflect their ambitions of a Premier League club looking to move into European competition – something that could happen as early as next season if the Cherries pull off a strong finish to the current campaign.