Chester FC are looking forward to improvements off the pitch, with plans being drawn up for a new fanzone outside the ground – while a new digital scoreboard will bring an immediate boost in time for the next home game.

The Blues posted an update on their website on September 23 with architect Tom Partridge, of independent architecture studio Common Practice, creating concepts of what a future fanzone at the Deva Stadium could look like down the line.

The former Kingsway High School pupil said the "flexible, exciting Fan Zone" would not only "enhance the match day experience for supporters" but create opportunities for other community events – which would help boost club revenue.

Although at an early stage, concept designs have been posted on the club website which show what the football club could end up hosting, should relevant funding and permissions be granted.

The fan zone concept shows it would be placed behind one of the stands, initially with room with food and drink stalls, a spot to buy club merchandise, tabled seating, toilet facilities and a stage for potential music acts. The concept designs allow for shelter to be installed at a future phase.

 

Concept designs by Common Practice of what a Fan Zone at the Deva Stadium could look like in the future.

Concept designs by Common Practice of what a Fan Zone at the Deva Stadium could look like in the future.

 

A further, more ambitious concept, shows the fan zone could be extended for larger-scale music acts, in the event it was viable for Chester FC to host music events. The design provides an example of Deva Fest, which is currently held at Cholmondeley Castle and will do so in 2025.

Tom Partridge told the club: "Currently, the project is at the feasibility and fact-finding stage. Public consultation and fund-raising will play a large part of the development proposals as we move forward.

"However, paramount is public safety at the ground. Therefore, ensuring the stadium remains compliant with relevant legislation and working with the authorities to ensure compliance is the next step."

In the shorter term, the Blues are excited to announce that a new digital scoreboard will be installed at the ground in time for the next home game, when Chester FC take on Farsley Celtic in the National League North on Saturday, October 5.

The club revealed the scoreboard, located at the south west corner of the ground, has been funded at no cost to the club, thanks to "an incredible, significant donation from a longtime supporter and the remainder made up by fellow Blues supporters".

The scoreboard is supplied by Betta-LED and a range of advertising opportunities will be available through the new installation. Contact Chester FC general manager Albert Davies at albert.davies@chesterfc.com for more information.