West Bromwich Albion 'fan zone' moves step closer

Last month, the club revealed plans to transform the derelict Hawthorns pub next to the Birmingham Road ground.

Approval has now been granted to knock down the Grade II listed building's 'west wing' to make way for the fan zone, which has been inspired by similar projects across the country including one outside Liverpool's Anfield ground.

Parts of the building and the land around it, including the current car park, will house the new facility.

The pub on the junction with Halfords Lane closed in 2009 and was bought by the club a year later.

Planning permission was secured earlier this year to demolish its 'east' and 'south' wings.

All three wings were added in the 20th century with the central section of the pub dating back to 1845.

Plans already approved would see the historic core turned into a drive-through coffee shop, which Baggies officials hope will display club memorabilia and form the centerpiece of the fan zone.

The fan zone would have live music, children's activities, food, drink and merchandise stands and a big screen linked to the system inside the ground. Officials hope to launch it by the start of next season.

The fireplace in the west wing is believed to be the only internal feature of heritage interest in the section and will be relocated to an original chimney breast location.

The wing itself is not believed to be of any historical or architectural interest.

Michael Magnall, assistant director at AFLSP architects, said: "The fireplace is the only internal feature of heritage interest in the West Wing.

"It is the principle north elevation which best exhibits the classicism of the Regency influences in this early Victorian House.

"We therefore believe that this proposal is to the betterment of this heritage asset.

"These proposals are a milestone toward a future application, which it is hoped will bring the building back into use and be made accessible by the public."

Official supporters club chairman John Homer welcomed the fan zone plans when revealed in November.

He said: "It is an admirable idea.

"There is a dearth of facilities for fans close to the ground and hopefully this idea will help do something about it.

"Fans struggle for things to do before the games so if this can help create some more atmosphere near the ground then I am all in favour of it."

In 2011, fans suggested turning The Hawthorns public house into an archive celebrating the side's history.

At the time the club said it would consider the plans, but a formal application was never submitted.

The club has a long-term ambition to extend the West Stand over Halfords Lane, increasing the capacity of the ground to more than 30,000, although those plans have been on hold for the last 18 months after demand for tickets failed to increase sufficiently.