Stockport Council has given the green light for a new fan zone at Edgeley Park, with the aim of easing congestion around the ground as the club's attendance numbers grow.
County's dedicated fan zone, named County Courtyard, will cater for up to 1,500 fans with its three shipping containers and a stretch tent providing cover from downpours. Food wise, a host of fan favourites will be on offer including craft beers, award-winning pies, and street food from around the world.
Jonathan Vaughan, Stockport County CEO said: “We’re delighted that Stockport Council has approved plans for the County Fan Zone, we know that creating a fantastic matchday experience goes beyond what happens on the pitch and we need to do everything we can to welcome fans into Edgeley Park and keep them coming back. This planning approval allows further investment into the ground which not only adds to the fan experience but brings new jobs and helps drive Stockport County’s progress on the pitch.”
Read more: The pie makers cooking up half-time grub for Stockport County fans
The food court and fan zone has been proposed to help reduce footfall around the ground at peak times, and the club hopes it will become a 'perfect place' to take in the pre-and-post match atmosphere. Earlier this year, award-winning pie makers, Great North Pie Co opened a concession at County - another boost to the club after sealing promotion to the Football League after 11 years away.
Speaking to the Manchester Evening News this summer, co-founder Neil said: “It’s unbelievable really, because my dad used to play for them years ago and I grew up in Stockport.. When they first contacted me I was over the moon.
"I thought if there was one club I could have chosen. And I think it says a lot about the new ownership as they took a hit on their own margins to bring us in, so in a way they’re sort of subsidising it for their fans - they could have brought in a slightly cheaper supplier but they wanted to bring in something of a higher standard."
The approved plans also include additional seating for fans to enjoy a pre-match bite to eat, plus additional toilets facilities including accessible and changing facilities. When it opens, the fan zone will create at least 20 new jobs with a host of vacancies available including bar staff, stewards, and chefs.
Works will now start at the ground and the new fan zone is expected to complete before the end of the year with further announcements to come ahead of the official launch.
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