History and description

Football was first played at Bloomfield Road in 1887. In 1899, a first modest stadium was built and the first match played on the 21st of October of that year between South Shore FC and the 1st South Lancashire Regimen. South Shore FC would soon after merge with Blackpool FC. Bloomfield Road rapidly expanded in the following decades, reaching a capacity of over 20,000 by the mid-1920s. In 1930, a new north terrace was built to raise the capacity to just over 30,000.

No further developments were made until in 1954 the East Paddock was extended. By the mid 1960s, the stadium could hold up to 38,000 fans. However, this was soon reduced when several standing areas were converted into seats. Additionally, the Spion Kop received partial cover at this time.

By the 1990s, Bloomfield Road had deteriorated significantly and necessitated additional safety measures. This led to further reductions in its capacity.

The plans were met with scepticism, but after several years of planning and construction, the new stadium was opened in 2007. Several initiatives were launched in an attempt to build a new stadium, all of which failed to materialise. In 2000, the club changed course and presented plans to redevelop the existing ground. Despite scepticism, after several years of planning and construction the new stadium was opened in 2007.

One year later, the Spion Kop and West Stand were demolished and replaced by new stands. In 2003 it was the turn of the East and South Stand to get demolished, but no new stands were built yet.

A new South Stand was not built until 2010, and prior to that, the East End was occupied by temporary structures. These structures were gradually improved in 2011.

(photos of the present Bloomfield Road below)

How to get to Bloomfield Road

Bloomfield Road is located in central Blackpool, south of Blackpool town centre, and at only a few hundred metres from the Promenade (between the South and Central Pier). Address: Seasiders Way, Blackpool, FY1 6JJ

The book was published in 1892.

Blackpool Tickets

Tickets for Blackpool games can be bought online, by phone (+44) 844 847 1953, or at the ticket office at Bloomfield Road. Tickets cost either £22 or £27 for most seats at the West Stand.

For more information email [email protected]

Relevant Internet links

The Blackpool FC website is the official website of Blackpool FC. It contains information on the club and its players, as well as tourist information. The Nationalrail website is a handy resource for finding out information on train times and fares.