There has been significant investment in facilities at the LNER Stadium ahead of fans returning this weekend.
Saturday's game against Fleetwood Town will be the first time supporters have been allowed at the stadium without any restrictions since the start of the pandemic, and there have been some substantial improvements in that time to enhance both safety and the matchday experience.
The most striking additions are the new stand in the north-east corner of the stadium and the installation of LED advertising. Along with the new stand, additional seating in the Lincolnshire Co-Operative Stand means the new seated capacity for the LNER Stadium is now almost 10,600.
The LED perimeter boards help add to the aesthetic appearance framed around a fantastic new playing surface, as well as offering greater commercial opportunities for the club.
Director of Operations Damian Froggatt said: "It has been a busy summer with the amount of work we have undertaken as a result of significant capital investment by the board as part of their long term infrastructure investment strategy.
"We've been able to increase the capacity of the stadium while addressing some other long-standing infrastructure needs, and the temporary stand installation is part of the wider plan to develop the Stacey West Stand which will further increase capacity and provide a new home for Lincoln City Foundation.
"The University of Lincoln Fan Village also has a new look, and there is a brand new food & drink court outside the Selenity Stand. And the upgrading of almost 700 new seats in the KryptoKloud Stand also enhances the appearance of the stadium as well as improving the matchday experience for fans.
“We would actively encourage fans to arrive earlier and soak in the atmosphere. Everything we've done has been designed to ensure matchdays are as safe and enjoyable as possible for supporters and we have a clear message to all fans as they look forward to the game – welcome back, stay safe and look after each other."
Summary of changes:
- New stand in north-east corner of the stadium
- State-of-the-art fibresand pitch installed
- Seats replaced in the KryptoKloud Stand
- New signage throughout the stadium
- Enhanced University Of Lincoln Fan Village
- Refurbished changing rooms and players’ tunnel
- Concrete platforms removed from Co-Op Stand and replaced with new seats
- LED advertising
- Refurbished toilets
- New catering partner