Southampton FC announce big step in plan to redevelop St Mary's

The club has said it wants to expand the stadium and surrounding areas, and working with the council open the waterfront to the public - currently blocked off through industrial use, including by Cemex opposite the stadium.

Together Saints and the council are hoping to create the South Coast's premier sports, leisure, and entertainment hub to enhance the area's economic potential.

They have now signed a memorandum of understanding setting out a commitment to explore how the redevelopment can be done.

They hope to transform the Itchen Riverside and St Mary’s Waterfront district into a year-round destination.

A statement released by the club insists their shared vision includes:

• Expanding St Mary’s Stadium and developing the surrounding areas to accommodate future growth, establishing it as a key entertainment destination on the South Coast.
• Enhanced transport and infrastructure plans to improve connectivity, making it easier for residents and visitors to access the waterfront area.
• A mixed and balanced community that includes commercial, leisure, residential, and accessible public spaces that enhance the quality of life for local people and attract new visitors and investment.
• Sustainability and environmental initiatives aligned with Southampton’s Green City Plan.

Phil Parsons, centre, with Southampton City Council staff (Image: Southampton FC)

Saints CEO Phil Parsons said: “This memorandum of understanding is a crucial step in ensuring the future success of both Southampton Football Club and the city of Southampton.

“For the club to thrive and survive in the Premier League, we must increase our revenue streams, and developing the St Mary’s Waterfront area is central to achieving that.

"In turn, a successful football club at the highest level brings enormous benefits to the city, including increased tourism, investment, and civic pride. 

“We are incredibly grateful to the Council for their proactive and committed approach to this partnership.

"Their vision for developing the area and improving the city aligns perfectly with our ambition to establish Southampton as a leading destination for sport, leisure, and entertainment.”

Saints, supported by owners Sport Republic, believe this plan is a big step in the continuation of their ambition for St Mary's to be the premier entertainment destination on the South Coast.

Having already launched new lounges, fan zones and a pub, they also want to create a high-tech entertainment zone in the stadium that will draw in revenue every day of the year - not just on 19 matchdays.

Some of the developments already brought in are thought to be a stepping stone to bigger things with a focus on long-term sustainability and competitiveness.

Saints have relied heavily on player trading to be sustainable in the modern era but believe diversifying their revenue streams will, in turn, allow them to create a more competitive playing squad within Premier League Squad Cost Rules.

There's no point having a lot of money if you don't have the revenue to then spend it within PSR rules. And you can deduct infrastructure and development costs from PSR so in the meantime, this is a really good way for Sport Republic to invest and encourage growth.#SaintsFC https://t.co/yFTwMmILHG

— Alfie House (@AlfieHouseEcho) December 13, 2024

Under the MOU, Southampton FC and Southampton City Council will collaborate on initiatives such as development, community engagement, and transport improvements.

As previously reported, Saints have wanted to get passenger rail services on the existing line that goes to the docks.

Both Saints and the council state they are committed to working openly with local partners to achieve their goals that reflect the interests of the Southampton community.

They say they aim to enhance the area’s economic potential while promoting sustainability, social value, and accessibility.

The MOU’s objectives will be reviewed regularly, allowing flexibility for emerging opportunities and ensuring the project’s goals continue to meet the needs of Southampton’s residents and businesses.

Southampton City Council's leader Lorna Fielker believes that football-led regeneration has been a "game-changer" for other communities across the country.

Cllr Fielker added: “This is an exciting first step in bringing forward a unified vision for Southampton’s future. 

A flyover view of St Mary's Stadium and Waterfront (Image: Daily Echo)

"We are working with our partners and key stakeholders across the city to deliver on our aspirations and are delighted to be working with Southampton FC to support what for many people represents the pride of the city.”

A Saints statement said: "The MOU emphasises the commitment of Southampton Football Club and Southampton City Council to work closely over the coming years in establishing the St Mary’s Waterfront as a vibrant and enhanced centre for sport and entertainment.

"This partnership is part of the broader Southampton Renaissance strategy, which seeks to attract investment and boost the local economy."

Internationally renowned consultancy firm Prior + Partners was appointed to lead plans for Southampton Renaissance Masterplan earlier in the year.

The Renaissance Board is working alongside the 90-strong consortium to put a spotlight on the city's prospects for investment and deliver strategies to create a "long-lasting legacy of prosperity for all". 

The work is the first stage in a long-term programme for delivering new development in the city with Prior + Partners being picked from over 25 applicants.