University of Bolton Stadium – stadium description

The stadium was built in times of great post-Taylor reform in England and the project raised significant controversy. Some fans questioned its location outside Bolton (previous Burnden Park was within walking distance for many) and some had trouble accepting Reebok as name holder.

But since Reebok is a long time sponsor of Wanderers and in fact a local company, the name became less of a problem over the years, with most fans referring to the stadium as simply ‘The Reebok’. As for the Burnden Park sentiments, club’s previous ground was honoured with one of streets surrounding Reebok Stadium called Burnden Way.

The venue was designed by Populous (then HOK Sport) and has a very distinctive appearance with steel trusses dominating local skyline, with roof supports and floodlight pylons integrated with one another.

Interestingly, the seating capacity of over 28,000 could have been higher, but corner sections of the upper tiers were never approved due to poor evacuation routes, thus seats weren’t installed there.

Apart from Wanderers holding their fixtures, the stadium also hosts rugby matches and quite some concerts, compared to other league grounds. The non-sporting function of Reebok Stadium is supported by a hotel integrated into the south stand, with some rooms overlooking the pitch.