Brighton unveil plans for purpose-built women's football stadium | OneFootball

Brighton & Hove Albion have confirmed plans to build Europe's first stadium purposely built for women's football.

In a statement, the Seagulls said that the new 10,000-capacity ground 'underlines the board's intent and belief in the women's and girls' game', which the club hope will be open in time for the 2030/31season.

"The prospect of a bespoke stadium, built exclusively for women's players, staff and supporters, is incredibly exciting," the women's team managing director Zoe Johnson said about the announcement. 

"It is a project that is the first of its kind in the UK and Europe, and one of only three in the world, and will capture the imagination of stakeholders across the women's game, not just here but globally.

"It is something we are asked about constantly, and we have worked hard to reach this moment, so it is exciting now to share this news with the wider world. It will help us push forward our ambitions to compete consistently both domestically in the Women's Super League, and also in European club competition, while helping us to attract key staff and grow a passionate fan base.

"We also hope the stadium can support academy and development fixtures, giving more of our younger players valuable experience of playing in a purpose-built stadium environment." 

The new stadium will be constructed next to the Amex Stadium via a bridge and the club hopes it has a matchday experience 'designed to be especially welcoming for families and first-time attendees'.

Brighton are currently sixth in the WSL after stunning league-leaders Manchester City last time out and will face Manchester United at Leigh Sports Village on Saturday.