Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis has revealed ambitious plans to increase the capacity of the City Ground to 50,000. This goes beyond the club's current plans to expand to 42,000 by rebuilding the Peter Taylor Stand and extending the Bridgford Stand.
Marinakis' vision comes after a period of uncertainty regarding Forest's future at their historic home. Earlier this year, negotiations between the club and Nottingham City Council, which owns the land, broke down over increased rent demands. This led Forest to explore building a new 50,000-seater stadium in Toton.
However, a deal was reached in July to sell the City Ground land to the club, seemingly securing their future at the site they've called home for 126 years.
"We need a bigger stadium," Marinakis told BBC East Midlands Today. "We have a lot of supporters and a huge waiting list for season tickets. I'm sure a 50,000-seat stadium will be full watching our team and our passion."
Marinakis emphasized that remaining at the City Ground is the priority. "That is where the team belongs and where the tradition is," he said. "It's most important for the town of Nottingham and I want to finalize this and have one of the best stadiums in England for years to come. This is my prime target right now."
This ambitious plan highlights Marinakis' commitment to the club and its supporters. A larger stadium would not only accommodate the growing fanbase but also solidify Forest's position as a major force in English football.