Brighton set for first purpose-built stadium for women's football in UK and Europe

Brighton have revealed their plans for the first purpose-built stadium for women's football in the UK and Europe.

The proposals were first approved by the local council in October 2023, but delays meant the club have not been able to proceed with the plans until now.

It will be built on land called Bennett's Field, which is adjacent to the Amex Stadium near the ground's East Stand. It will be linked with the current main ground via a bridge link and will have a minimum capacity of 10,000.

The stadium will be the first built with female athletes and women's football supporters in mind. This incudes bespoke changing and recovery rooms all the way through to catering for a more inclusive fan base. This will include easy access for families, wider concourses and social spaces.

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The Seagulls had initially wanted the ground to be ready for the start of the 2027/28 campaign, but it is now hoped the stadium will be open no later than the start of the 2030/31 season.

It will be a landmark moment for women's football, with most teams sharing grounds with other teams or sports or playing in a former men's ground.

It was a topic recently explored by an in-depth Sky Sports project, with Brighton following in the footsteps of NWSL side KC Current, who also have a purpose-built stadium for their team. Fellow USA side Denver Summit are also planning to open their own stadium for their women's team in 2028.

More to follow...