Stockport County Seek Approval for Temporary Roof at Railway End

Stockport County have submitted a planning application to build a temporary roof over the Railway End stand at Edgeley Park, a move aimed at helping the club meet English Football League (EFL) requirements for away fan accommodation.

The proposal will be reviewed by Stockport Council’s Planning and Highways Committee in August. If approved, the roof would remain in place for up to three years under a temporary planning permission.

EFL rules mandate that at least 10% of a club’s stadium capacity must be made available to away supporters for league matches, with 20% of that allocation under cover. The Railway End is set to serve as the designated away section for the upcoming season, allowing Stockport to meet these criteria.

Chairman Ken Knott said the plan also benefits the home crowd: “The move will strengthen the club's ability to maximise attendance capacity and provide County fans with access to more tickets for games at Edgeley Park.”

The proposal is seen as a short-term solution while long-term redevelopment plans for the stand are considered. “We are seeking a temporary permission for a proposed temporary roof covering for up to three years, and our ambitious plans for the stadium will be brought forward in due course,” Knott added.

Stockport have consistently tied future stadium developments to the club’s on-field progress. “As we have consistently stated to fans, the plans for a new Railway End Stand will, to a large extent, be dependent on ongoing on-field success and a promotion into the Championship.”