Groundbreaking Ceremony Marks Major Step Forward In Wrexham AFC’s New Kop Stand Redevelopment

The new Kop stand, set for completion during the 2026/27 season, will restore the stadium to a four-sided configuration, increase capacity to just over 18,000 and enable the STōK Cae Ras to achieve UEFA Category 4 compliance.

The new stand includes provision for safe standing, hospitality and accessible seating, and will be a prominent focal point, visible from the city centre. At its rear, facing a new public and fan plaza, an external brick facade pays homage to the City’s “Terracottapolis” nickname and the brick colour and textures of Ruabon red brick from the local area.

The seating bowl has been designed to create a home end that will reinforce the atmosphere within the STōK Cae Ras, with design of the roof optimised to amplify sound from the spectators out around the stadium.  The inclusion of player and officials facilities within the new Kop allows fans to welcome the team onto the pitch through a player tunnel in the heart of the stand, providing another unique experience at the stadium.

The groundbreaking is a landmark moment that signals the transition from extensive early site preparation to the main build programme. The ceremony, held on 4 December, brought together representatives from the Club, Wrexham County Borough Council, McLaren Construction Midlands and North, Populous, the Welsh Government, Wrexham University alongside wider stakeholders from the Wrexham Gateway Partnership.

Under the wider team and contractors McLaren Construction, the project will now move into its principal construction period, with the breakout piles, casting of foundations all commencing through December and into January, and the start of reinforced concrete lift cores, that will support the new structural steel frame along with the foundation. Work will also progress on internal service ducting, drainage and preparation of the main ground floor slab.

In early 2026, slip formed reinforced concrete cores will be constructed to provide stability for the roof structure. The steel frame, which comprises approximately 1,500 tonnes of steel including major long-lead tubular truss sections, is scheduled to begin rising from early spring.

The new Kop Stand will deliver modern concourses, improved accessibility routes, upgraded media and broadcast facilities, and enhanced back-of-house and matchday operations. Its design is being driven by UEFA standards, Safety Advisory Group requirements and the latest Green Guide principles, ensuring the new structure not only meets regulatory expectations but significantly enhances the supporter experience and long-term operational efficiency of the stadium.

Michael Williamson, CEO of Wrexham AFC, said: “Breaking ground on the new Kop Stand is a hugely significant moment for the Club and our supporters. The Kop has always held deep importance, and today’s ceremony marks the beginning of its long-awaited return. Over the coming months, fans will see the structure take shape as we build a stand that enhances capacity, improves facilities and secures the future of the STōK Cae Ras as a top-tier venue for domestic, international football and other sporting and entertainment events.”

Declan Sharkey, Global Director and Senior Principal at Populous, added: “We have designed the new Kop Stand to be both authentic and unique in its approach to hosting Wrexham’s passionate fans. The groundbreaking is a key moment for this landmark project and we are proud to be working with the club and with McLaren and the wider project team to bring this iconic design to life.”

Leader of Wrexham Council, Cllr Mark Pritchard said “The new Kop Stand marks a significant step forward for the Wrexham Gateway. We’ve worked closely with the club and partners to help shape the project that will see enhancements to the ground and improvements in connectivity that will open up new opportunities. Once in use, the stand will be a great vantage point to witness historic domestic and international games here in Wrexham, the spiritual home of Welsh Football.”