Sheffield FC Stadium – design description

Being the oldest football club in the world, Sheffield FC have used more than 10 stadiums in their history, beginning in 1857 at East Bank, where a store now stands. Since 2001 the club have been stuck outside Sheffield, in Dronfield. Efforts to return close to the city centre proved futile but an opening was created for a new stadium and training academy at the Sheffield Transport Sports Club, a mile north from Dronfield.

Sheffield FC hired WMA Architects to deliver a stadium design that would boost the club without being excessively ambitious. In capacity terms, the new ground is to hold 4,000 people, nearly double the Dronfield ground size. When counting actual seats, the number is 800+ compared to 250.

One single grandstand and shed-like ground level terracing is what Sheffield FC intend to start their new journey with. But that grandstand would include something special, a heritage centre. It would display history of not just the football club but the birth of football as we know it. As such, the centre would serve as a regional and even international attraction, reaching beyond the regular fanbase.

According to club estimates, the new stadium and training centre could be delivered in just a year. However, before construction could begin, planning permission for a residential estate in the place of the current Coach and Horses ground. This development would help pay for the relocation.