England: Norwich fans furious over changes at Carrow Road

source: StadiumDB.com; author: Paulina Skóra

England: Norwich fans furious over changes at Carrow Road Major changes are coming to Carrow Road, but not all Norwich City fans are embracing them. Tony Swan, a 70-year-old supporter with more than fifty years of attendance at the stadium, has announced plans to launch a petition against the proposed reorganization, which could see up to 3,000 fans lose their current seats.

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“We won’t be moved”

Swan, who has been a regular at the River End stand for decades, insists he will not give up his seat without a fight. I am going to start a petition. I plan to get contact details from all the fans who are on my side at the next home game. he said. During the last match at Carrow Road, fans were heard chanting We will not be moved. For many supporters who have occupied the same seats for years, the changes mean more than a new view—they threaten the social bonds and atmosphere built over decades. Before the match Tracey Rix, from Norwich, said: I don’t want it. I’ve had a season ticket in the same seats for 40 years.

Carrow Road© Norwich City FC

Club: “Part of the development plan”

Norwich City officials say the changes are part of a four-stage modernization plan for Carrow Road, aimed at improving the matchday experience and increasing club revenues. The first stage, scheduled for summer 2026, includes the construction of a fan zone behind the Barclay End stand. In the 2026/27 season, the club plans to relocate the away supporters’ section to the lower level of the River End, forcing the relocation of some season ticket holders.

In an official statement, the club emphasized that the process would be handled with care: We understand that moving seats is a significant challenge, especially for our long-term supporters. We will do everything possible to make this process as smooth as possible. All affected season ticket holders have already been notified by email and will have priority when choosing new seats, with the option to remain near family and friends.

Despite these assurances, emotions remain high among fans. Many feel the decisions were made without adequate consultation. They talk about the match day experience improving as a result, but I don’t know who they are trying to attract. commented Tony Swan.

Carrow Road© by Amdamsky

A stadium with history

According to the club, the first three stages aim to secure the best possible positioning for future stadium expansion and lay the groundwork for a 21st-century modernization. Carrow Road has been Norwich City’s home since 1935. After a fire in 1984, a new City Stand was built, and the last major upgrade came in 2004 with the new South Stand. This time, the club is pursuing comprehensive development, both for sports infrastructure and commercial facilities.

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