AFC Bournemouth's Vitality Stadium redevelopment plans approved

AFC Bournemouth’s chairman and owner Bill Foley thanked BCP Council and the planning committee after the club’s plans to redevelop Vitality Stadium were approved.

The Cherries home currently holds 11,300 – the smallest ground in the Premier League.

But with plans to increase capacity to 20,000 in a phased process now confirmed, Foley believes the green light given by the local authority “can continue to compete and grow at the highest level both on and off the pitch”.

In a statement on the club website, Foley said: “The granting of planning permission is a major step forward in our vision for the future of this football club and the wider community.

"This project is about far more than a stadium. It is about strengthening our connection with supporters, investing in the local area, and ensuring AFC Bournemouth can continue to compete and grow at the highest level both on and off the pitch.

"I’d like to thank BCP Council and the planning committee for their efforts over the past year. We are proud of what has been achieved so far, and this approval represents the beginning of an exciting new chapter for everyone connected with the club.”

As well as increased capacity, the club are also introducing more hospitality options for supporters.

The Cherries are thriving both on and off the pitch at present, having secured European qualification for the first time in their 127-year history for next season.

They will also finish in the highest league position in their history following Sunday’s season finale at Nottingham Forest.

(Picture: AFC Bournemouth)