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Cambridge United have agreed to explore the possibility of leaving the Abbey Stadium for a new home at the Cambridge East development site.
The proposed partnership represents a significant step towards a potential 15,000-capacity stadium, although no final decision or commitment has been made.
Cambridge United assess move away from the Abbey Stadium
The club will work alongside the Hill Group and Greater Cambridge Development Corporation to assess the feasibility of a new stadium at the Cambridge East/Marshalls site.
The initial phase of work begins immediately and is expected to conclude by Easter 2027, with the wider site not due to be vacated until 2029.
Cambridge United have appointed Richard Arnold of Wrenbridge Sport as Stadium Adviser, bringing experience from projects including London 2012, Brentford's Gtech Community Stadium and Murrayfield.
Chairman Godric Smith has explained that the club's long-term future may need to lie away from the Abbey Stadium, which has been their home since 1932.
Despite owning the ground, multiple studies have highlighted the difficulties of redeveloping the existing stadium, particularly given its ageing facilities and financial limitations.
The working assumption is for a 15,000-capacity venue approximately a mile from the current ground, although there are no indicative designs at this stage.
The League Two outfit believes a new stadium could also act as a catalyst for wider regeneration, bringing economic and community benefits to a growing part of Cambridge.
However, supporters should not expect an immediate move. The U's anticipate remaining at the Abbey Stadium for the best part of the next decade, while improvements to the existing matchday experience will continue.
Smith has also promised supporters a full consultation if the project progresses towards a potential relocation.
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Leaving the Abbey Stadium would represent a huge change for a club that has called it home for 94 years, but the financial and infrastructure limitations outlined by the chairman make the prospect understandable.
A modern 15,000-seat stadium could give Cambridge United the facilities and commercial opportunities needed to support their ambitions, while potentially benefiting the wider city.
There is still a long way to go, and the Easter 2027 feasibility deadline is an important first milestone rather than confirmation that a new ground will be built.