Described as the "worst-kept secret in St Albans", the city's football club is plotting a stadium move.
In a new podcast featuring Saints co-owner and chair Lawrence Levy, the club excitedly discussed early thoughts about a potential new stadium and community space in Chiswell Green - first mentioned in 2018.
As well as reaching out to fans and supporters, St Albans City has already "started sharing conversation" with local leaders and residents in the area - including those around the current stadium in Clarence Park - to ensure their priorities and concerns.
"Community is at the heart of everything we do at St Albans City FC, and our stadium proposals are no different," a Facebook post by the club read.
"We want to make sure our supporters, residents and the wider community have their voices heard and can play their part in making our future grounds at Noke Lane the best it can be for our people."
The club said it "appreciates" the significant change to fans and the city and was aware not everybody will be "pleased" by plans.
The full podcast can be seen here:
Further details published on the Saints' website suggest its current home, since 1908, is "no longer fit for purpose".
Concerns about safety, accessibility and league requirements are all highlighted, and facilities are described as "limited". The financial security of the club is also mentioned among the many justifications for a new ground.
Although early in the planning process, the stadium aims to be compliant to "National League standards and beyond, champion health and opportunity in the community, and be designed to manage matchday operations effectively".
New retail and hospitality spaces would be built to provide key funding for the club too.
In spring 2025, the club held a meeting with Chiswell Green Residents association to open dialogue about the plans.
Following this, a presentation of early proposals was delivered to St Albans City and District Council in the Summer.
Fans are asked to visit the website at stalbanscityfcstadium.com, or visit our pop-up on matchday on Saturday, December 27 at 3pm, to find out more about the new stadium, early thoughts on what this may look like, and how you can have your say on proposals.
In May 2018, St Albans City unveiled a 6,000 capacity football stadium forming part of a 1,265-home community village on Noke Lane to the south of the city - it has not been confirmed if the new proposals are similar.
St Albans City FC has been contacted for further comment.
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