Work on Wrexham AFC’s long-awaited Kop Stand redevelopment has continued apace this December despite the festive season approaching, with fresh drone footage revealing sustained activity on site at the SToK Cae Ras.
Wrexham AFC Fanzone shared the latest aerial update on Monday, highlighting groundwork and initial construction as the project advances toward its targeted 2026-27 completion.
The Populous-designed stand, set to restore the stadium to a traditional four-sided layout, will significantly boost capacity to around 18,000 once finished.
The redevelopment has moved well beyond early preparatory works, with McLaren Construction now pushing forward into the main build phase that followed a groundbreaking ceremony held in early December.
In footage shared by supporters online, site teams can be seen continuing piling, soil stabilisation and groundwork, even in the colder winter conditions that have paused drone flights at times.
Early activity has also focused on key infrastructure elements that will support the steel framework due to rise in early spring.
The new stand’s brick facade and modern facilities are designed to honour Wrexham’s heritage while delivering improved spectator comfort, safe standing areas, enhanced media spaces and accessible seating options.
Completion of the structure will allow the Racecourse Ground to meet UEFA Category 4 standards, opening the door for the venue to host international fixtures for the first time in decades.
McLaren ramping up for Kop Stand structural build in 2026
Although much of the visible progress so far has centred on preparatory earthworks, drainage and rebar cage assembly, the latest videos suggest the site is now poised for the next significant phase of construction.
According to planners and local supporters tracking developments, reinforced concrete cores and the first structural steel elements will be installed as soon as early 2026, once the foundation works are completed.
The project, part of the broader Wrexham Gateway Partnership regeneration plan, has included collaborations with local authorities, the Welsh Government, Wrexham University and community stakeholders.
Supporters have been closely following progress via frequent drone updates uploaded by Wrexham AFC Fanzone.
Fans on social media have noted how much unseen work there is in the early stages and how quickly the reconstruction effort is gaining momentum.
Once complete, the Kop Stand will become a linchpin of Wrexham’s ambitions to compete at higher levels and to host major sporting events, including potential international matches tied to the 2026 UEFA European Under-19 Championship.
FGG Says
The latest drone footage is a welcome reminder that stadium redevelopment is a marathon. What supporters see now, piles, soil prep and foundation layout, may lack the drama of steel rising vertically, but it is the bedrock of every successful build.
Wrexham’s Kop Stand project epitomises patience, community involvement and ambition. As McLaren steps up into the structural phase, the focus must remain on quality and longevity over rushed timelines.