Hatters' hopes for expansion

THERE was agony for Stockport County fans at Edgeley Park last week during the club's play-off semi-final defeat to Leyton Orient.

- BY DECLAN CAREY

The Hatters went out on penalties in front of a full house to confirm they will spend another season in League One.

But in just a few weeks, a major decision is approaching that could define Stockport County's future for generations.

Plans have been tabled to expand their Edgeley home to fit more than 18,000 fans inside a boost of around 7,400 seats from the current capacity.

It could be transformational for the club, bringing more revenue and bigger crowds as the team continues to push for a return to Championship football.

The plans may be decided on July 3 by Stockport Council's planning committee, in what could be a major boost for everyone at the club if they get the green light to start work.

County fans around the stadium before the club's play-off game on May 14 said the stadium has to expand to meet the growing fanbase.

"They're selling out every game now, pretty much, so it's definitely time to bring the ground up to a capacity that can make the club be at the level they want to," said County fan Chris, who goes to the games with his dad Keith.

"Even when Stockport were in League One, 15 years ago, you could drive down a street and there were never any kids in Stockport shirts, it was always United and City.