Why one chimney in particular at Birmingham City's new 62,000 seater stadium will break a record | OneFootball

Birmingham City's eye-catching new ground is set to break a record

One chimney on Birmingham City’s new stadium is set to break a record.

The Second City side are in the midst of the most exciting period in their modern history, with Knighthead Capital Management’s ambitions for the club seemingly never-ending.

After taking over Blues in 2023, they’ve guided them to a record-breaking promotion from League One, two ambitious summer transfer windows and communicated their desire on multiple occasions to achieve promotion to the Premier League.

That is a task easier said than done, but Birmingham supporters will be overjoyed to know how determined their owners are to achieve success and make Blues one of English football’s biggest forces.

Another one of Tom Wagner’s major plans is the sports quarter project, which would consist of a new training ground and academy facilities, plus entertainment, office, residential and retail spaces alongside the new stadium.

Why one chimney on Birmingham City’s new stadium is set to break a record

Encompassed within the sports quarter will be Blues’ new 62,000 seater stadium, which is set to be completed by the start of the 2030/31 season.

Detailed plans for the ground were recently revealed by Birmingham via social media, with the design paying homage to the Second City’s industrial past.

Most visible are the 12 huge chimneys erected around the ground, which aren’t just there for show. They represent a unique feature and help to ensure the stadium combines a blend of modernism and history, with Bluenoses lapping up the designs.

In fact, one of the chimneys is set to play a part in breaking a record.

That's because of the chimneys will reportedly contain a lift to the highest bar in the city, offering unique views out onto Birmingham and breaking a record in the process.

Blues’ new stadium also features a retractable roof, whilst also being fit to host events such as the NFL and major music concerts.

Chimney record highlights the bold design direction Birmingham City have gone down

Modern football stadiums can often settle for the same, bowl-shaped look, which is why Birmingham City should be commended for the unique design direction they have taken.

Clearly, an immense amount of thought, time and effort went into making sure every element was covered when planning the ground, which is highlighted by their record-breaking chimney.

Being able to include something that will bring headlines and attention to the club within one of the structural components of the stadium is not only clever, but an example of what Birmingham are looking to achieve.

Whilst the goal of succeeding in the English game is the primary focus, doing so whilst trying to cater to an international audience is also a huge part of Wagner’s plan and being able to take this lift to the record-breaking bar will no doubt help that.