Designs for Commonwealth stadium unveiled

Plans for the redevelopment of Alexander Stadium – the centrepiece of Birmingham’s Commonwealth Games – have been released.

The venue at Walsall Road, Perry Barr, will be the focal point of the 2022 Games, hosting the opening and closing ceremonies as well as the athletics programme.

The redeveloped stadium will see its seating capacity increase from 12,700 to 18,000, with temporary seating adding a further 12,000 during the Games.

Project features include a new western stand; new seating to the north and south; a new 400m six-lane warm up track and re-laying of a new IAAF Category 1 track; improved parking provision, with additional landscaping and signage; new stadium lighting and practice throwing field, and a new access road from the A453 Aldridge Road

Council Leader Ian Ward said: “We’re now in an exciting phase of the design process where we would like to share our plans for the future with the community and hear their thoughts.

“The team has designed a redeveloped stadium which will meet the needs and aspirations of the community for generations to come. This is about creating a destination venue, shaping a legacy beyond the Commonwealth Games.”

Paul Faulkner, Chief Executive of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, said: “It is great to see preparation for the Games entering the next phase with these designs, which make a huge statement and really bring the redevelopment that will be taking place at the Alexander Stadium to life.

“While we are going to have a spectacular stadium for the Games, it is important that it also has a lasting impact on the city.

“These initial designs clearly demonstrate that will be the case, and show how the Games and its legacy will benefit generations of communities and businesses to come.”