Millions of pounds of public money could be used to support a £42 million investment to ensure Edgbaston cricket ground keeps its place in the “elite tier of international cricket venues”.
Birmingham City Council is considering lending £32 million to the home of Warwickshire County Cricket Club to support a big upgrade of the ground and maintain its status as a venue for international matches. The cash would be used to help rebuild the oldest two stands – the Raglan and Priory Stands – and add facilities including a 145 room hotel.
The council said figures from 2019 showed test matches, county cricket, The Hundred and T20 Finals Day attracted 400,000 visitors contributed £68 million to the city’s economy.
It said the figures were set to keep growing with this summer’s Ashes series and the ongoing success of The Hundred competition and further investment was needed to make the most of opportunities coming from the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup and the 2030 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
The council is set to vote on funding next week, subject to planning approval, consultation with neighbours and the agreement of certain terms.
Birmingham City Council leader Coun Ian Ward said: "Major sporting events provide a huge boost to the Birmingham economy, as we have seen from the likes of the Commonwealth Games, World Indoor Athletics Championships and the annual programme of fixtures hosted at venues across the city such as Edgbaston Stadium.
“Edgbaston is now widely considered to be the country's best cricket venue outside of London, but competition for big matches and major events is fierce and we must stay ahead of the competition.
“That's why further development is essential to grow the economic impact and sporting reputation of the city and strengthen the financial base of the Cricket Club – we are looking at the provision of a loan as one way in which this could be achieved.”
Since 2011 the stadium has had new stands built, with a new members’ area, executive club and boxes, event and conferencing facilities as well as a large exhibition centre and media facilities – all supported by a £20 million council loan.
A second phase of improvements – set for completion in October – includes 375 build to rent apartments on the junction of Edgbaston Road and Pershore Road with a new piazza linking them with the stadium.
