May 14 – Everton’s Bramley-Moore Dock stadium tops a list of flooding concerns as climate change threatens to ‘entirely submerge’ a number of English stadiums by 2060, according to new data.
A study released by Digital ID utilised data from Climate Central’s Coastal Risk Screening Tool to warn of significant flooding risks that could impact a number of football venues, disrupt schedules, and lead to substantial economic losses.
The potential submersion and frequent flooding of these stadiums pose not just a logistical nightmare but also threaten the cultural heritage and economic stability of the local communities they serve.
In the Premier League, Brentford’s Community Stadium is at the forefront of concern due to its location at just 32.8 feet above sea level. Similar risks are faced by Everton’s new Bramley-Moore Dock stadium built on the edge of the river Mersey, as the project nears completion towards the end of 2024 despite funding worries.
The issue is also prominent across lower leagues, who could be more severely affected due to financial limitations. The worst of which, Cardiff City Stadium, stands at just 29.5 feet above sea level and is predicted by Digital ID to be entirely submerged by 2040 if current sea level trends continue.
Adam Bennett, spokesperson for Digital ID, stated, “The data paints a stark picture of the future for our beloved football stadiums if action is not taken to address the impacts of climate change. We urge football clubs and governing bodies to consider proactive measures to mitigate these risks, including investing in flood defences and exploring relocation options for the most vulnerable sites.”
As sea levels continue to rise, Digital ID say that the call for immediate action becomes louder. The study serves as a crucial wake-up call for all stakeholders involved in sports infrastructure to invest in urgent measures to safeguard the future of football in England.
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at moc.l1729228952labto1729228952ofdlr1729228952owedi1729228952sni@g1729228952niwe.1729228952yrrah1729228952