Santos outline Vila Belmiro works and confirm partial stand closure on Saturday | OneFootball

Santos have detailed refurbishment works to the most popular stand at Vila Belmiro and confirmed a partial closure for Saturday’s Brasileirão match against Chapecoense.

The club said in a statement that at 18:30 Brasília time only the lateral sections of the stand will be open, following Military Police clearance. The central area, the most sought after, remains shut for refurbishment.

The works are expected to lift capacity in that section from 3,200 to 5,000. Despite debts above R$ one billion, the club projects a short term return through increased matchday revenue at their home stadium.

Santos say the works have an AVS from the city authorities and an AVCB from the Fire Department. Once complete, the increased capacity can only be used after the necessary approvals from the Fire Department and Military Police.

The broader redevelopment of Vila Belmiro with WTorre has been suspended since April. Expansion of popular areas, often without seats, is a growing trend in Brazil and worldwide.

In April, the club also adjusted the Gate 17 section for members to comply with Conmebol regulations, meeting international competition demands and operational needs.

Source: Globo.com