Crystal Palace Football Club has finally overcome a major obstacle delaying its stadium expansion, having successfully purchased the last of six houses required for the project's next phase.
All Properties Acquired for Demolition
The club confirmed on January 9, 2026 that it now owns all six residential properties at 22-32 Wooderson Close, which sit directly adjacent to Selhurst Park. With all former residents now rehoused, the houses are set for imminent demolition. This move resolves a significant stumbling block that had persisted since Croydon Council first granted planning permission in principle nearly eight years ago.
The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) revealed that the club paid above market value for the privately owned home at number 30, compared to the price agreed for the former council-owned properties. Most council tenants were eventually rehoused within the borough after initial communication issues when plans first emerged in 2017.
Boosting Capacity and Local Investment
The Selhurst Park redevelopment will transform the stadium's ageing Main Stand. Upon completion, the overall capacity will surge from 25,486 to over 34,000, with the new stand itself holding around 13,500 spectators. A portion of the Wooderson Close site will form the south-eastern corner of the new structure and will initially serve as a secure construction zone to minimise disruption on matchdays.
Croydon Mayor Jason Perry, a self-professed Palace supporter, welcomed the progress. He stated that the sale of the council homes would fund replacement affordable housing within the borough. "The new Main Stand and wider improvements will be enjoyed for generations and represent a significant investment in the local area," he said.
Behind-the-Scenes Work Underway
While the property purchases were finalised, the club has been progressing with enabling works. This includes building new changing rooms beneath the Holmesdale Stand, relocating cables, and making other infrastructure upgrades. These steps will allow for the removal of long-standing temporary portacabins used by away teams.
The club also previously acquired land from the neighbouring Sainsbury's supermarket to create additional space for the project. Crystal Palace has thanked Croydon Council for its support and promised a further update on the construction timeline soon.
