Plans to relocate Norwich City away fans get council approval despite backlash
The structural changes at Carrow Road have been approved despite concerns.
Norwich City Football Club has received approval for structural changes to Carrow Road that could see away fans relocated closer to families in the River End stand.
The club has stressed it will not move the 3,000 season ticket holders impacted without further consultation, following widespread criticism from supporters.
The proposed move is part of a four-phase project aimed at generating additional revenue and increasing the stadium’s capacity to 35,000 in the long term. The changes would include moving away supporters to the lower tier of the River End, setting up a fan zone behind the Barclay, and expanding corporate seating opportunities in the South Stand.
The plans, approved during a development committee meeting, include structural changes to facilitate the relocation of fans if the club decides to proceed. These include modifications to the River End stand, a new stair and lift in the South Stand, and updates to the building’s facade.
Concerns surrounding the placement of away fans near family and disabled seating areas in the Joma section have led to some backlash and questions about the practical implications of the changes. Norfolk Constabulary’s planning officer also raised concerns during a site visit, but councillors were limited to only considering the structural aspects of the application.
Norwich City has committed to reviewing proposals and conducting consultations before moving forward with any changes to seating arrangements.
Although club officials have said major work will not begin until after the next season, gaining planning permission allows flexibility for future decisions. This opens up the possibility of revisiting the original plan later on.
The timeline for any significant redevelopment remains unclear.