Former Premier League stadium undergoes major works with all the seats ripped out as EFL club share update
TAKE A SEAT Former Premier League stadium undergoes major works with all the seats ripped out as EFL club share update
BLACKPOOL have torn apart their Bloomfield Road stadium as a major revamp gets underway.
All the seats have been torn out of the East Stand as part of work ahead of the 2025/26 League One campaign.
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Photos released by the club show all of the seats from the East Stand have been removed
Credit: https://x.com/BlackpoolFC
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There are changes being made to this historic ground
Credit: Getty
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This stadium used to host Premier League games back in the day
Credit: STEVE ALLEN
The upgraded stand will replace a temporary structure originally built during the club's Premier League days, aiming to enhance the match day atmosphere for fans.
The project will include the replacement and refurbishment of all boards and seating, along with new media facilities and a camera platform.
The club also plans to repaint the South Stand roof in tangerine and white over the summer.
Fans can also expect the introduction of safe standing, with railings set to be installed over the coming months.
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Subject to planning approval, the club aims to make further improvements to the East Stand and its facade.
New LED floodlighting will be introduced throughout the stadium, along with a new tannoy system - both part of the second stage of stadium upgrades.
Following confirmation of these developments, owner Simon Sadler highlighted progress both on and off the pitch.
He said: 'I am delighted that we are about to embark on this major build and refurbishment project in and around Bloomfield Road.
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"I am very excited about what lies ahead for our club. I am particularly pleased that we have found a cost-effective solution to rebuild and address the deficiencies of the East Stand by utilising its existing frame, which I'm assured has at least another 20 years of life.
'While I understand there may be some disappointment among fans that we aren't building a new cantilevered stand from scratch, the savings-likely in excess of £10 million-are substantial.
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'These savings free up funds to invest elsewhere in and around the stadium and also mean we won't have to sacrifice stadium capacity during the construction.
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'The installation of railings in the North Stand and the addition of tangerine to the underside of the South Stand roof are key improvements, but more can still be done to stamp our identity on Bloomfield Road.
'As such, we will formally reach out to fans and fan groups to explore ways to add more colour and vibrancy throughout our home.
'When completed, the Sports Village will be a fantastic asset for our Community Trust and Academy, both of which will be based at the Bloomfield Road complex.
'This means that in the heart of Blackpool, we will have a busy, vibrant facility used seven days a week by local boys and girls, men and women, for a range of football and sport-related activities.
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'With Squires Gate training ground receiving further off-season investment and the Sports Village set for completion next summer, the club—from the Academy to the first team—will soon be the most integrated and professional it has ever been.
'For the first time, we will have Championship-level facilities throughout, giving us a strong foundation for future success.
'I truly believe that after several years of disappointment, we have turned the proverbial corner. We now have, by far, the best all-round footballing setup during my time as owner—and make no mistake, promotion back to the Championship is our goal. Better times lie ahead for us all.'
Blackpool finished ninth in League One, falling just short of the play-offs.
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They were last in the Premier League back in 2010/11 and last in the Championship for the 2022/23 campaign.
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