Aston Villa has revealed groundbreaking plans to revitalize the area surrounding Villa Park, including the creation of a new fan zone and a 3,500-seat venue designed for hosting various events.

The largest pub in the Premier League?

The club announced that the plans include The Warehouse, a new multifunctional facility that aims to become the center of matchday experiences. Additionally, a new ticket office, renovation of the area in front of North Grounds, and an expanded club shop are also in the works.

Chris Heck, President of Business Operations, stated that the project will be game-changing for fans. According to the plans, The Warehouse is set to become the largest pub in the Premier League on matchdays, transforming into a 3,500-seat venue that will host concerts and other events year-round. Club officials hope that the revamped North Grounds area will enhance the matchday atmosphere around Villa Park. It will connect the stadium with The Warehouse and the club shop, creating an electric atmosphere.

We want to create the best matchday experience in the Premier League, so we’re giving our fans an open space to do what they do best – gather to celebrate the players, the game, and the spirit of this community, said Heck. In his view, this strategic decision to turn the space into a world-class entertainment venue will add another key element in climbing the financial fair play ladder. The new facilities are expected to be ready for fans by December 2025.

© Chris Homer

What about Villa Park's expansion plans?

In the summer of 2023, Aston Villa unveiled ambitious plans to increase the stadium’s capacity to over 50,000 spectators. The club revealed the first phase of the project after Villa Park was selected as one of the venues for Euro 2028. However, in September of the previous year, Keith Wyness, the club’s CEO from 2016 to 2018, disclosed on the Football Insider podcast that the plans had been delayed due to transport issues surrounding the stadium.

In recent weeks, West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker met with Aston Villa representatives to discuss upgrading the Witton station ahead of Euro 2028. Planned improvements include new ramps for better crowd management, an underground pedestrian and cyclist crossing, and expanded platforms. Parker emphasized the importance of these improvements as part of his election campaign and aims for ongoing collaboration with the club and local transport authorities. Witton Station is a key part of the Villa Park upgrades, even though it is not directly related to the stadium’s interior.

© Chris Homer