Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney have recently revealed an even more ambitious plan for the redevelopment of Wrexham’s Racecourse Ground. The latest updates on the proposed new stand at the Kop End have been unveiled following a meeting with fan groups. While the club currently has permission for a 5,500-seat stand, the new proposal aims to increase this capacity to 7,000 seats. This expansion comes as demand for tickets to Wrexham’s matches grows, thanks to the success of the “Welcome to Wrexham” documentary. Executive director Humphrey Ker described the new designs as a standout feature in the stadium’s skyline, aiming to create a landmark structure.
The project, led by Hollywood-owned Wrexham FC, is pursuing its third successive promotion to reach the Championship. The plans for the Kop End are being overseen by new architects appointed last year, including renowned firm Populous, known for designing iconic stadiums such as Wembley and Tottenham Hotspur. The recent minutes from the Wrexham club advisory board meeting indicate that two more phases of development are scheduled for the coming years. The focus will soon shift to revamping the 4,200-capacity Wrexham Lager Stand, with the ultimate goal of accommodating up to 55,000 fans at the Racecourse in the future.
The Welsh Government has pledged over £17 million in public funding to support the construction of the new Kop Stand. Although the project has faced delays, the club’s chief executive aims to have the stand ready by the summer of 2026. This deadline aligns with Wrexham hosting a part of the UEFA European Under-19 Championship next year, underscoring the urgency to complete the renovations. Reynolds and McElhenney have been vocal about the challenges they’ve faced with bureaucratic hurdles, expressing their frustration with the UK’s planning processes.
Further details of the stadium overhaul reveal plans to replace the Racecourse pitch swiftly after the current season ends to accommodate international football and rugby events. The relocation of dugouts to meet required standards is also being considered. The new plans, reviewed by Reynolds and McElhenney with input from fans, aim to create a versatile space that caters to both seated and standing spectators, including facilities for disabled supporters. An enhanced hospitality experience is on the agenda, with provisions for a Hall of Fame featuring club legends and nods to the area’s industrial heritage.
The comprehensive redevelopment project aims to transform the Racecourse Ground into a modern sports venue with amenities that meet the needs of fans and players alike. While challenges persist, the commitment to enhancing the stadium reflects the dedication of Reynolds, McElhenney, and the entire Wrexham FC community. The forthcoming designs for the new Kop Stand are eagerly awaited, promising a state-of-the-art facility that honours the club’s rich history while embracing a brighter future. The evolution of Wrexham’s home stadium stands as a testament to the vision and determination of its co-chairmen and supporters.