Crystal Palace chief Steve Parish drops Selhurst Park redevelopment update as ‘big issue’ remains

Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish has provided a fresh update on the long-awaited redevelopment of Selhurst Park, with demolition work now completed but construction yet to begin.

Rising material costs and securing financing remain significant challenges, although the club insists the project is still firmly on track.

Steve Parish shares Selhurst Park redevelopment update

Palace have begun preparing for the next phase of the redevelopment after demolishing six houses on Wooderson Close and removing parts of the Main Stand, with a new glass hospitality building also taking shape.

However, Parish has admitted to The Athletic this week that rising material costs remain the biggest obstacle, with the club reviewing the stadium's facade materials and considering design changes to reduce expenditure.

The project, first announced nine years ago, has faced repeated delays, with the club prioritising a £30m academy redevelopment and dealing with disruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. Costs have previously been reported to have risen above £200m.

Parish confirmed that financing has yet to be secured, although discussions with banks and other potential funding partners are ongoing.

A new project management company is also expected to begin work soon, with the club hoping to start piling during the current season.

The Eagles chairman also said the redevelopment would be delivered in stages to reduce costs, while a temporary fan zone is planned to provide supporters with a place to gather during the construction process.

The completed project is expected to increase annual revenue by around £20m, although the complicated site and land acquisition requirements have contributed to the delays.

Parish reiterated that Palace remain fully committed to the redevelopment, describing it as essential to the club's long-term future.

FGG says: Selhurst Park redevelopment remains a priority despite rising costs

Palace's latest update highlights the financial and logistical challenges involved in transforming Selhurst Park, with inflation and the complexity of the site continuing to delay progress.

The club's commitment to completing the project is clear, but the lack of secured financing means significant hurdles remain before construction can gather pace.

The staged approach could help Palace manage expenditure while continuing to compete on the pitch, although supporters will want to see some sort of progress after many years of delays.