Home. A word AFC Wimbledon supporters will have longed to hear. 29 years after the original Plough Lane played its last home match, The Crazy Gang return to its original roots.
AFC Wimbledon Coming Home
Home Sweet Home
In 2015, Merton Council approved plans for the new Plough Lane. It was to be built just a stone’s throw away from the original mythical Plough Lane.
That original home was the home of the original Wimbledon for nearly 80 years. The new stadium sits on the site of the old Wimbledon Greyhound track.
Its demolishment took place in 2018 as construction began for AFC Wimbledon’s homecoming.
AFC Wimbledon’s Trodden Path to Plough Lane
In 2002, AFC Wimbledon began its existance, rising from the ashes through the bitter break up of Milton Keynes Dons. Over 18 years the Dons have spent longing for home.
During that time, they have played in various stadiums such as the Kingsmeadow Stadium of Kingstonion and more recently this season at the Kiyan Prince Foundation stadium of Queen’s Park Rangers.
Plough Lane and AFC Wimbledon – the Perfect Marriage
Over two and a half years since building work began and many more years of false dawns, constant setbacks followed by patience and anticipation, AFC Wimbledon return to their spiritual home.
Meanwhile, the eagerly anticipated match takes place on Tuesday, November 3, at 7:45 pm with Doncaster Rovers being the first opponent.
Plough Lane – the Stats
At a cost of £32 million, the new stadium has a capacity for supporters of 9,300 with a further upgrade to 20,000 in the future if required. In addition, this will include wheelchair access of 100 spaces.
Of that stadium outlay, £2 million was raised through a crowdfunding scheme by supporters to aid the stadiums development. Also, the stadium will have 800 conferencing and banqueting spaces, which is the highest in the borough.
The Old and the New for AFC Wimbledon
In terms of fan experience itself, the South Stand will be a terrace section bringing some authentic chanting noise from the home fans. The seating pattern will feature an eye-catching pattern of blue and yellow seats to match their traditional colours.
A hint of nostalgia arrives with the original Plough Lane gates erected at the stadium too. A case of back to the future – Wimbledon style.
Creating a Legacy
The Crazy Dons celebrate this new landmark in their eventful chapter. 32 years ago, the original incarnation achieved arguably the greatest in their history by lifting the FA Cup shocking red hot favourites Liverpool 1-0. A goal by Lawrie Sanchez was enough to enter Wimbledon into fairy tale folklore.
With the rise of Plough Lane once more, the current squad have the opportunity to stamp their mark and create further history take add to the illustrious names of the likes of Dave Beasant, Vinnie Jones, Dennis Wise and many more.
AFC Wimbledon’s wait to return home as finally arrived. Although no supporters will be present, everyone connected with the club will be delighted to see their club back where they belong.
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