Dean Court Redevelopment Nears Key Phase As Steelwork Approaches

AFC Bournemouth's ambitious redevelopment of Dean Court continues to gather momentum, with the latest construction activity suggesting the project is approaching a significant milestone despite relatively little visible steelwork appearing above ground.

Supporters hoping to see the new corner structures taking shape may have been left underwhelmed by recent progress, however, much of the work over the past fortnight has focused on creating the foundations that will ultimately support the expanded stadium.

Piling operations have now been completed in at least one of the new corner infills, with reinforced concrete pile caps either installed or nearing completion. These foundations are essential to transferring the immense weight of the future steel frame, terraces and roof deep into stable ground before any structural steel can be erected.

With the imported steel now believed to be on site, attention is expected to turn towards the first major steelwork in the coming weeks.

Elsewhere around the stadium, several visible developments have continued. Fresh concrete has been poured on both levels of the new hospitality wing extension on the south side of the Main Stand, while roofing has been installed over the balcony areas and external insulated wall systems are beginning to take shape.

Construction has also advanced on the stadium's new secure perimeter. Additional turnstile canopies have been erected around the site as Bournemouth prepare to introduce a campus-style entry system, allowing supporters to enter a secure stadium footprint before making their way to individual stands. The redesign is expected to improve crowd flow, reduce congestion and create a more efficient matchday experience.

Accessibility has also been enhanced with the installation of a new precast lift shaft adjacent to the Main Stand, providing improved access to the upper floors.

Away from the stands themselves, the new club shop entrance on the west side of the stadium is now clearly visible, while foundations have also appeared in the Main Stand car park for what is believed to be a temporary ticket office during the redevelopment programme - which will be a modular build.

Attention has also turned to the playing surface. The newly laid pitch has now been seeded and covered using specialist germination sheets designed to accelerate grass growth ahead of the new Premier League campaign.

Smaller cosmetic improvements continue too, including refinements to the "AFCB" lettering on the East Stand, while the rerouted cycle path around the stadium has largely been completed.

With Bournemouth scheduled to host Everton in their first home league fixture in just 47 days, the project now enters a crucial phase. Although much of the recent work has taken place below ground, the foundations are now largely in place for the most visually striking stage of the redevelopment.

If progress continues as expected, supporters may not have to wait much longer before the first sections of the new steel frame begin to rise above Dean Court's skyline.