England: Palace removes a key obstacle. Selhurst Park redevelopment moves closer
source: StadiumDB.com ; author: Jakub Ducki
Selhurst Park is edging closer to the biggest redevelopment in its history. The acquisition of neighbouring properties removes a key formal obstacle and brings Crystal Palace closer to delivering a project set to transform the stadium’s scale and long-term role.
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Selhurst Park redevelopment a step closer
Crystal Palace have completed the purchase of six houses on Wooderson Close, clearing one of the main formal hurdles to starting Selhurst Park redevelopment. Once residents have been relocated, the properties can be prepared for demolition.
Croydon Mayor Jason Perry welcomed the sale, saying the funds raised are expected to support the delivery of new council housing. This has been the result of sustained work behind the scenes by the council working with the club
Perry said. As a lifelong Palace supporter, I know how much Selhurst Park means to fans.
In a January update, the club confirmed the breakthrough regarding the plots next to the stadium: We are pleased to confirm we have completed the purchase of all six houses located in Wooderson Close.
Palace added that the next step is now primarily operational: With this purchase completed, and all residents rehoused, these properties can now be readied for demolition, removing another formal barrier towards commencing construction.
According to Crystal Palace, the newly acquired land will be used in two ways. Part of the site will fall within the footprint of the new stand (at its south‑east corner), while the remaining space will initially serve as a construction compound. This is intended to support safer access for increased vehicle movements and staff, and - where possible - to reduce disruption on matchdays. After the project is completed, the area is expected to be incorporated into a permanent access road and pavement leading to the stadium.
© Crystal Palace FC / KSS Design Group | Selhurst Park is already over 100 years old, and renovation is unavoidable. The stadium’s capacity is set to increase by 30%.
What does the Selhurst Park redevelopment include?
Palace have long planned to expand Selhurst Park, increasing capacity from around 26,000 to more than 34,000 seats. The club has framed the project as a broader modernisation effort: It has long been our ambition to extend and modernise Selhurst Park, making it a home fit for the 21st century.
The redevelopment plans were first announced in December 2017, but progress slowed due to factors including the Covid‑19 pandemic, planning changes requiring re-approval, and resident relocation issues. In summer 2024, the club signed final legal agreements with Croydon Council covering the redevelopment of the Main Stand.
The January update also mentions preparatory works behind the scenes,
including new changing facilities under the Holmesdale Stand for match officials and visiting teams, plus the diversion of cables and infrastructure. This is intended to allow the removal of temporary containers near the Holmesdale entrance and enable further construction in that area. The club says another update on the next stages will follow in due course.
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