Fulham's plans to redevelop Craven Cottage have been boosted today, with Hammersmith and Fulham council set to decide whether or not to grant planning permission for the new Riverside Stand on March 20th. 

Plans for the new stand include the redevelopment and expansion of the current Riverside Stand to increase its capacity by 4,000 seats.

Plans also include new restaurants, cafés, bars, corporate hospitality and event space as well as nine serviced residential apartments.

There will also be a new river side walk to the rear of the stand and a basement to provide functional facilities as well as a club and lounge area.

Get West London reports that the planning officer recommendation is to grant approval for the plan, but that is subject to a vote at the meeting and on the plan not being opposed by the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan.

Once completed, Craven Cottage will have an overall capacity of 29,589. The Riverside Stand was originally terracing that backed onto the River Thames. In 1973, under the guise of the Eric Miller Stand, it became a fully seated stand and was opened with a prestigious friendly against Benfica, featuring the great Eusebio.

The meeting to decide on the current changes will take place in committee room one at Hammersmith Town Hall at 7pm on Tuesday March 20th.

The Verdict

It's certainly exciting times for those at Fulham, the plans are ambitious and will increase both match day revenue and corporate income at Craven Cottage. I would imagine the plans are also supported by fans who will feel redeveloping the existing ground is a far more attractive option than a move to new premises. After all, both Arsenal and West Ham struggled to settle in new grounds so it is nice to see Fulham bucking the trend.