ABSTRACT
Wembley is probably the best-known stadium in the world and in 1997 it was decided that it needed redevelopment if it were to maintain its status as one of the world’s premier venues. Our team, including Foster and Partners, was commissioned in 1998 to design the new stadium that would be the centrepiece of England’s bid to host the 2006 World Cup and will be completed in 2003. A range of design options have been developed with one of the most striking being to support the large roof area on a 130 metre high arch which will replace the existing twin towers. It will provide a new symbol of a dynamic and exciting future for Wembley and will create a unique profile against the skyline visible for miles around. The new 90,000 seat stadium will also feature a partly retractable roof to allow the sun to reach all parts of the pitch and a platform athletics track to be inserted when needed thus allowing seating for pitch sports to remain close to the action. The spectacular approach along Olympic Way where the crowd will be directed by the 130 metre high arch which will be seen for miles https://s3-euw1-ap-pe-df-pch-content-public-p.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/9781315024929/359ce304-ef63-499b-ae03-e76337cd5a5a/content/figp31_3_C.jpg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"/>
