sportskeeda
A previous football stadium, once the arena for one of the EFL’s most enduring clubs, has now been redeveloped into a residential community.
Nonetheless, local council developers took care to maintain a small grassy area where the center circle used to be, serving as a tribute to the historic site.
9
9
9
9
From thrilling moments of promotion to the heartbreak of relegation, the stadium hosted many memorable events.
Built in 1907, Layer Road stood for over a century before its closure in 2008 and subsequent destruction in 2012.
At its height, it welcomed up to 19,000 passionate supporters.
However, by the time it closed in July 2008 due to safety issues, its capacity had dwindled to just 6,320.
This venue proudly served as the home ground for League Two club Colchester United for an impressive 71 years.
Initially, it was frequented by the British Army and a local amateur team, Colchester Town, until 1937.
Colchester United took over just before the Second World War commenced.
In an all-time attendance record, 19,072 fans filled Layer Road for an FA Cup match against Reading in 1948, which was ultimately called off due to fog.
FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS
As the years passed, Colchester United oscillated between Division Three and Four, grappling with increasing financial pressures.
By 1981, chairman Maurice Cadman indicated that Layer Road needed £280,000 for essential safety improvements to meet regulatory standards.
Inside Arsenal’s new £300m+ stadium plans with futuristic Emirates project set to dwarf Spurs ground
In light of financial challenges, sections of the ground were closed off, reducing the capacity to 4,500.
During the 1990-91 season, Colchester United had to sell Layer Road back to the Borough Council for £1.2 million, aiming to reduce club debts.
The council began looking for possible sites for a new stadium, while Colchester temporarily dropped out of the Football League between 1989 and 1991.
Today, guests to the area will encounter a completely different landscape—a lovely housing community.
The final first-team match at Layer Road occurred on April 26, 2008, where Colchester lost 1-0 to Stoke City, who were vying for promotion.
Richard Cresswell scored the last professional goal at this venue.
9
9
By 2008, the U’s had ascended to the Championship but suffered relegation during their last season at Layer Road.
In 2011, Colchester Borough Council sold the 3.63-acre stadium site to developer Abbey New Homes for around £1.5 million.
Planning permissions were granted for 58 homes, comprising both flats and houses, while a central grassy area was preserved to honor its football legacy.
This was also a respectful nod to supporters who had their ashes scattered on the pitch, reflecting their strong ties to the club.
In mid-2012, Layer Road was demolished, and construction of the new homes began shortly after.
A bronze statue honoring Colchester United’s ‘Player of the Century’, Peter Wright, was unveiled in 2015.
Wright, who joined the team in 1951, played over 400 matches and netted 93 goals during his 13 years with the club.
The inscription on the statue reads: “ON THIS SITE Football was played 1907-2008. This was the home of Colchester United FC from its inception in 1937 until April 26, 2008.”
The square leading from Layer Road is now referred to as Turnstile Square.
9
9
9
