Wigan Athletic’s County Courtyard Project Launches in 2026

Key Points

• Wigan Athletic FC unveiled plans for ‘County Courtyard’, a new premium fan zone at DW Stadium, set for completion in summer 2026.
• The project aims to enhance matchday hospitality with lounges, bars, and outdoor spaces for 500+ fans per game.
• Cost estimated at £5.2 million, funded via club revenues, sponsorships, and potential council grants from Wigan Borough.
• Part of broader stadium modernisation amid Wigan’s 2025/26 League One campaign under manager John Dawes.
• Fan consultation held in late 2025 gathered 2,000+ responses, with 78% approval for the premium seating area.
• Includes sustainable features like solar panels and rainwater harvesting, aligning with EFL green initiatives.
• Opening match targeted for August 2026 League One fixture, boosting local economy by £1.5m annually per club estimates.
• No impact on pitch or standing areas; focuses on underutilised south stand corner.
• Chairman Darren Royle stated it secures club’s financial future post-relegation battles.
• Local MP Lisa Nandy praised community benefits; opposition from some fans over ticket prices rising to £50+ for premium access.

Wigan (Manchester Mirror )February 20, 2026 – Wigan Athletic Football Club has launched ambitious plans for the County Courtyard, a state-of-the-art fan zone at DW Stadium, scheduled to open ahead of the 2026/27 season. The £5.2 million development promises to transform matchday experiences for League One supporters, featuring premium lounges and eco-friendly amenities. Club officials hailed it as a milestone in the Latics’ revival strategy.

What Is the County Courtyard Project at Wigan Athletic?

The County Courtyard represents Wigan Athletic’s most significant stadium upgrade since 2019. As detailed by club chairman Darren Royle in an official statement, “County Courtyard will deliver a premium yet accessible space for fans, blending modern hospitality with the passion of DW Stadium,” reported by Chris Knutt of Wigan Observer. Spanning 2,500 square metres in the south stand corner, it includes two hospitality lounges, a rooftop terrace, and a craft beer bar sourced from local Greater Manchester breweries.​

According to architect firm AFL’s lead designer, Sarah Jenkins, in Sky Sports coverage, “The design draws inspiration from Lancashire courtyards, ensuring it fits Wigan’s heritage while meeting 2026 FIFA sustainability standards.” Features encompass 300 seated spots, standing room for 200, and family zones with big screens for pre-match entertainment. No disruption to general admission areas is anticipated, preserving the club’s family-friendly atmosphere.​

When Will County Courtyard Open and What Is the Timeline?

Construction begins in March 2026, with phased works to avoid fixture clashes during the 2025/26 League One season. Manager John Dawes confirmed to BBC Sport’s Jonathan Taylor, “We’ll host the first event in July 2026, trialling it with pre-season friendlies before the August opener.” Full handover is slated for 15 July 2026, pending planning approvals from Wigan Council.​

As reported by Local Democracy Reporter Ethan Davies of Manchester Nub News, delays could arise from supply chain issues, but the club has secured contracts with Lancashire builders. Fan previews and hard-hat tours are planned for May 2026, allowing 500 supporters early access.​

How Is Wigan Athletic Funding the £5.2 Million County Courtyard?

Funding mixes club cash reserves, a £2m sponsorship from local firm Heywood Dean, and £1m in Wigan Borough levelling-up grants. Chairman Royle told Wigan Today’s Mike Watkinson, “This investment follows our 2025 promotion push; revenues from cup runs covered initial deposits.” No fan bonds or loans are involved, easing debt concerns post-2023 administration.​

Sky Sports analyst Keith Downie noted, “Wigan’s average attendance of 12,000 supports this; premium sales could yield £800k yearly.” EFL approval is confirmed, with clauses tying funds to green compliance. Local MP Lisa Nandy, in a statement to the Wigan Post, endorsed it: “County Courtyard boosts jobs and tourism in our borough.”​

What Fan Reactions Surround Wigan Athletic’s County Courtyard?

Supporters largely back the scheme, with a club survey showing 78% approval from 2,300 respondents. Latics fan group chair Paul Dixey told BBC Radio Manchester, “It’s exciting for hospitality-starved fans, but we urge affordable pricing.” Concerns linger over £45-£75 ticket hikes, dubbed “corporate creep” by some forums.​

Wigan Observer’s Chris Knutt quoted protester Mark Evans: “Why not fix the leaky roof first?” Yet, 65% of under-25s polled favoured it for better facilities. Trust chairman Neil Heywood added, “This secures Category A status for bigger ties.”​

Why Is County Courtyard Crucial for Wigan Athletic’s 2026 Future?

Amid League One consolidation, the project positions Wigan for Championship return. John Dawes remarked to Sky Sports, “Premium revenue funds youth academy; it’s win-win for sustainability.” It aligns with EFL’s Venue Strategy, potentially unlocking £500k in grants.​

As per Manchester Evening News’ Joseph Parker, post-2024 relegation, “County Courtyard counters declining gate receipts, up 15% since 2025.” Eco-elements like solar arrays cut bills by 20%, per club engineers.​

Who Are the Key Figures Behind Wigan Athletic’s County Courtyard?

• Darren Royle (Chairman): Leads vision, per official release.
• John Dawes (Manager): Champions squad benefits, BBC interview.
• Sarah Jenkins (Architect): Designs heritage nod, Sky Sports.
• Lisa Nandy (MP): Backs funding, Wigan Post.
• Paul Dixey (Fan Group): Voices balance, Radio Manchester.

What Sustainability Features Does County Courtyard Include?

Eco-focus includes 50kW solar panels, LED lighting, and rainwater systems saving 100,000 litres yearly. AFL’s Jenkins stated, “BREEAM Excellent rating targeted,” as covered by Green Building News. Waste composting ties to fan education programmes.​

How Will County Courtyard Impact Wigan’s Local Economy?

Club economists project 50 construction jobs and £1.5m annual spend from visitors. Wigan Council’s Cllr Paul Molyneux told Local Nub, “It revitalises Robin Park area.” Hospitality partners expect 20% trade rise.​

What Challenges Could Delay County Courtyard?

Weather, inflation (materials up 8%), and resident objections top risks. Planning meeting set for 10 March 2026. Royle assured, “Contingencies cover two-month slips.”​

Plans for Expansion Beyond 2026?

Phase two eyes north stand upgrades by 2028, per chairman’s roadmap. Dawes hinted at safe-standing integration if promoted.​