Brighton and Hove Albion have announced plans to build the UK and Europe’s first purpose-built women’s football stadium, with the proposed 10,000-capacity venue set to be located next to the American Express Stadium.
The club confirmed work is underway on a planning application for the site at Bennett’s Field, acquired in 2025, with a target opening date of the 2030/31 season, subject to approval from local authorities.
Albion Women currently play their home matches at Broadfield Stadium in Crawley. The new development would give the team a permanent home in the city for the first time.
The stadium, described as “built for her”, will be designed specifically for the needs of the women’s team, staff and supporters. Brighton says it will be one of only three purpose-built women’s football stadiums in the world.
Plans include a physical link to the Amex via a new bridge, as well as underground parking facilitated by the natural slope of the site. The venue will also feature wider concourses, family-friendly spaces and a matchday experience tailored to a broader audience.
The project forms a key part of the club’s long-term vision for the women’s game, backed by owner Tony Bloom.
Managing director Zoe Johnson said: “The prospect of a bespoke stadium, built exclusively for women’s players, staff and supporters, is incredibly exciting. It is a project that is the first of its kind in the UK and Europe, and one of only three in the world.
“It will help us push forward our ambitions to compete consistently in the Women’s Super League and in Europe, while helping us to attract key staff and grow a passionate fan base.”
Chief executive Paul Barber added: “Our new women’s stadium is a powerful statement of our ambitions and will be integral to driving further momentum for the growth of women’s and girls’ football, not just in the UK but across the world.
“With a capacity aligned to Women’s Super League regulations, it reflects our belief in growing the fanbase sustainably, while also delivering benefits to the local area through jobs, apprenticeships and wider economic impact.”
If approved, the stadium would provide a permanent home for Albion Women and further underline the club’s investment in the women’s and girls’ game.
Embed from Getty ImagesWritten by Isabelle Martin
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