Ipswich Town chief makes plea to fans amid update on huge off-season upgrades at Portman Road

Ipswich Town have completed a series of upgrades at Portman Road ahead of the new season, with work focused on improving safety, accessibility and the overall matchday experience.

However, chief executive Mark Ashton has urged supporters to arrive early while work continues around the stadium and new arrangements are introduced.

Mark Ashton urges Ipswich fans to get to Portman Road early

Several significant changes have been made at Portman Road this summer, including new safe standing areas in the North Stand and a completely new PA system designed to address long-standing sound issues.

The first phase of an expanded West Stand concourse will also open for Saturday's game, providing supporters with new covered areas, improved facilities and upgraded toilets. Bottled beer will initially be available in the new spaces, with draught options expected to follow.

The club has also improved accessible areas within the stadium and around its entrances, while construction work has required changes to fan zone access and crowd movements.

Numbers in the fan zone will initially be limited, with additional entry rules applying to supporters without West Stand tickets after 2pm.

Ashton explained that work on the West Stand had uncovered an unusual issue when construction began, with part of a 1950s roof that had previously been removed apparently having been buried rather than taken away.

With the redevelopment continuing, Ashton has urged supporters to arrive earlier than usual, particularly for the opening fixtures.

“We're reducing prices drastically. So, I'd like people to get here early, take the benefit of that, but please, please, I reiterate, get here early because I want to get everyone in safely, everyone in comfortably,” he said.

FGG says: A few early teething issues are understandable

Portman Road is clearly undergoing a significant transformation, and some disruption is inevitable while the work takes place.

Ashton’s plea should be taken seriously, though, as arriving early will give supporters the chance to explore the new facilities while helping the club manage the altered access arrangements safely.