Nottingham Forest has kicked off a £1.9m redevelopment of the Forest Sports Zone, the site where the Reds played their first official match in 1866. The upgraded facility will reopen on July 13, offering a new two‑storey entrance, expanded changing rooms and a modern community space.

What is being rebuilt?

The Forest Sports Zone, opened in 2015, has hosted over 2,000 visitors each week. Since May it has been closed for a full reconstruction of the sand‑based 3G pitch and an extension of the changing rooms. The project adds a two‑storey entrance and larger office areas, turning the venue into the Forest Sports Hub – a name that reflects its broader community role.

Who is funding the project?

Funding comes from three sources: £625,000 from the Nottingham Forest Community Trust, £1 million from the Football Foundation and the balance from Nottingham City Council. Chair Nicholas Randall KC says the work “reflects another significant move forward for the club and what we want to do in the community.”

Why does it matter for the club?

Forest’s chairman stresses that the hub links the club’s heritage to its future. By improving grassroots facilities, the Reds hope to draw more young people into the game and strengthen ties beyond the City Ground. Trust chief executive Calum Osborne notes the site “ties the heritage and the history of the football club into the present and also the potential and opportunity it can deliver.”

When will it open?

The resurfaced pitch is already ready, and the hub will welcome the public on Monday, July 13. Full reopening of the entire sports zone is expected in the autumn, giving the community a modern venue for football, wellbeing programmes and social events.

How does this fit with Forest’s current season?

Forest sit 16th in the Premier League with 44 points from 38 games, a record of 11 wins, 11 draws and 16 losses. Their recent form reads D L D W W, and they are 41 points behind leaders Arsenal. The club’s last result was a 1‑1 draw with Bournemouth on 24 May 2026. Improving community facilities is part of a broader strategy to stabilise the club’s on‑field performance while nurturing the next generation of supporters.

What’s next for the City Ground?

The sports hub upgrade runs alongside ambitious plans to expand the City Ground, signalling a period of significant investment for the Reds. As the club works on both fronts, fans can expect a stronger link between the historic roots at the Recreation Ground and the modern demands of Premier League football.