A major new chapter has begun at one of cricket's most famous grounds, as Edgbaston Stadium commenced the demolition of its historic Raglan and Priory Stands. This marks the pivotal next step in the venue's ambitious Masterplan redevelopment, a transformative project valued at £46 million.
Funding and Timeline for a Modern Landmark
The significant redevelopment is being propelled by a £17.3 million investment from the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA). The two stands, which first opened to spectators in 1958 and are now nearing the end of their functional life, are being cleared from the site.
Construction on the new structures is scheduled to begin in early 2026, with the entire project slated for completion in time for one of sport's biggest events: The Men's Ashes in the summer of 2027.
Enhanced Facilities and a Game-Changing Hotel
This phase will replace the old stands with a single, modern new stand featuring 3,200 seats. The development promises a vastly improved experience for all visitors, focusing on:
- A new covered concourse for spectators.
- Enhanced food and beverage options.
- Significantly better accessibility for disabled fans.
A cornerstone of the project is the introduction of a four-star Radisson RED hotel. The 146-room hotel is expected to attract over 60,000 overnight guests to the stadium each year. 85 rooms will have pitch-facing balconies, and suites on the top two floors can be converted into exclusive hospitality boxes. A rooftop restaurant and bar with a wraparound terrace will offer stunning views of the hallowed turf and the Birmingham skyline.
Economic Boost and Community Impact
Edgbaston Stadium is already a major economic engine for the region, supporting around 1,000 full-time equivalent jobs and contributing approximately £35 million annually to the local economy. The new hotel development is projected to increase this economic impact to over £40 million per year, soaring to over £70 million in a Cricket World Cup year. Furthermore, it will create 134 new permanent jobs in the community.
Stuart Cain, Chief Executive at Warwickshire County Cricket Club, acknowledged the emotional weight of the moment while emphasising the necessity of progress. "It's scary to see seventy years of history disappear," he said, "but it's important that we make sure Edgbaston remains one of the world's best cricket stadiums and continues to evolve into an important community resource... and an economic asset for the city." He added that the hotel brings a much-needed four-star facility to Birmingham, using sport to drive positive change.
Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, commented: "Edgbaston is such an iconic venue... This redevelopment, backed by our investment, means it will continue to play its role in keeping our region at the top table of international sporting events for years to come." He highlighted the project's role in bringing more visitors, trade, and opportunities for local people.
This next stage builds on the Masterplan's previous successes, which include a modern international pavilion, the award-winning Corkfield apartments, the Skyline terrace, and the 'Xcelerate with Edgbaston' hospitality training centre run with partners Levy UK + Ireland.
