A new architect has been appointed by Wrexham to redesign the 5,500 capacity Kop stand that was originally scheduled to open in time for this season.
Populous, an architectural firm who have worked on the likes of Wembley, Tottenham Hotspur’s new stadium and the Principality Stadium, will now embark on a rejig with a view to the new stand being open for the Under-19 European Championship in 2026.
“We are determined to ensure the new Kop stand and the future vision of the SToK Cae Ras satisfies the needs and expectations of our fans and the local community, and the appointment of Populous as architect for the redesign reflects that,” says Wrexham chief executive, Michael Williamson.
Wrexham initially revealed plans to build a new Kop stand as part of the wider Wrexham Gateway scheme in 2022, replacing the derelict terrace that had laid empty for more than a decade.
But issues with planning and funding led to a series of delays, prompting the club to erect a temporary stand shortly before Christmas last season. This was further extended during the summer by around 800 seats, taking the overall capacity to 13,341.
The delays — caused by various factors, such as relocating a drain beneath the site and resolving legal matters related to transferring the lease from the Wrexham Supporters’ Trust to the club — gave owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney time to reconsider the original plans. This included exploring ways to make the new structure more adaptable for future ground developments. McElhenney had previously spoken of raising the capacity to 50,000.
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Now, with Populous on board, those plans can be stepped up. The new Kop will include provision for safe standing, hospitality and accessible seating. It will also be fully compliant with UEFA Category Four stadium requirements.
Humphrey Ker, Wrexham’s executive director, has previously told The Athletic that the building process for the new Kop will be 11 months from start to finish. This suggests work must start no later than next summer.
Significant pubic funding has been committed to the Wrexham Gateway scheme, which is intended to improve the entrance to the city, including Wrexham General railway station.
The club has pledged to work with various bodies during the redesign of the new Kop stand, including Wrexham County Borough Council, Wrexham University, the Welsh Government and the Football Association of Wales (FAW).
The site designated for the Kop stand redevelopment, pictured in 2023 (Tom Jenkins/Getty Images)
North Wales is set to host the Under-19 Euros across five venues in 2026, including Bangor, Denbigh, Colwyn Bay, Connah’s Quay and the Racecourse.
Wrexham have been desperate to boost the capacity of their stadium for several years. Almost all home matches are sold out in League One, although Tuesday’s goalless draw with Huddersfield Town saw a few hundred seats left empty.
Fans will be following the plans closely, particularly with regard to any changes designed to make future development easier. This includes potentially moving the pitch towards the new Kop to create more space for any future development at the Tech End.
Populous arrive with an impressive track record, that includes The Sphere in Las Vegas.
“We’re extremely proud to be appointed to work on the new Kop stand and to explore the potential for a wider vision and masterplan for the future SToK Cae Ras,” says Declan Sharkey, the company’s global director and senior principal.
“Our aim is to create a home for Wrexham’s passionate fans and the community that pays tribute to the heritage and traditions of the club and the city itself.”
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(Top photo: Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images)
