Brighton & Hove Albion have submitted plans to Brighton and Hove City Council for a new three-storey car park at the American Express Stadium in Falmer, aimed at addressing parking shortages for employees and directors. The proposed 43-space decked structure, set to be built on the stadium’s west bund with a footbridge linking to the west stand, is recommended for approval at the council’s Planning Committee meeting on August 6, 2025. The application, led by Community Stadium Limited, responds to the loss of 400 parking spaces at Bennett’s Field, where a 555-student housing development was approved, leaving only 128 spaces for matchday and non-matchday use.
The car park, featuring a silver façade with the Albion logo and a live green wall, aims to support the club’s travel management plan, which has seen 75% of fans use sustainable transport—highest in the Premier League. The top floor’s access relies on land owned by the University of Brighton, with negotiations ongoing for its use up to 50 times annually. The club’s planning agent, DMH Stallard, emphasized the necessity of the facility, noting that leased parking from surrounding landholders is at risk without lease renewals, causing operational challenges. To offset biodiversity loss, Albion will purchase credits from the Iford Biodiversity Project.
The proposal has sparked mixed reactions among fans. Some expressed concerns on supporter forums, fearing the car park could distance players from fans and erode the club’s community feel, though the club clarified it is exclusively for employees and directors, not players. Others see it as a necessary step for a club of Albion’s stature, especially as they compete in the Europa League and aim to maintain their top-flight status. The structure’s design incorporates accessibility features like a lift and stairway, ensuring compliance with council standards while enhancing matchday operations.
If approved, the car park will mark a significant infrastructure upgrade for Brighton, who face Arsenal in their Premier League opener on August 16, 2025. The project underscores the club’s commitment to balancing growth with sustainability, as they remain the only Premier League team to subsidize public transport for fans. With the planning decision imminent, Albion’s proactive approach aims to secure operational stability at the Amex, supporting their ambitions on and off the pitch as they navigate a competitive season.[](https://www.brightonandhovenews.org/2025/05/13/albion-plans-new-amex-car-park-on-grass-bank/)[](https://www.theargus.co.uk/news/25163330.brighton-hove-albion-submit-plans-new-amex-car-park/)[](https://www.moreradio.online/news-post/albion-car-park-plans-go-before-councillors)
