Yesterday, I explored the possibility of Celtic expanding the main stand, which got me pondering the broader ambitions for our club’s infrastructure. With a substantial sum sitting comfortably in the bank, there’s a world of opportunity open to us.
But beyond lofty talk, what does Celtic actually want to achieve? What kinds of projects would genuinely benefit the fans and the club? And what initiatives truly matter to the Celtic faithful?
The main stand expansion is clearly a major one.
Many supporters are eager to see the stand extended, especially those on the waiting list for season tickets or with friends who are. But it’s not the only infrastructure idea Celtic has kicked around over the years. So, let’s consider some other potential projects we might pursue.
A couple of years ago, Celtic applied for planning permission for a massive revolving LED screen at the front of Celtic Park. Whether it was withdrawn or turned down, it never really struck me as an inspiring proposal. A huge screen flashing ads and promos? It doesn’t feel like the sort of lasting legacy a club like Celtic should aim for.
For years, the idea of a “Celtic Village”—a commercial complex on-site—has floated around. This vision includes bars, restaurants, a hotel, and, of course, a museum. While intriguing, it would be a logistical headache and carry a high price tag. Realistically, the full concept seems like a long shot. However, there are some elements that could work, like a permanent Celtic bar, something supporters have discussed for ages.
We’ve already got a few bars inside the ground on match days, which has been a manageable, low-risk success. But a dedicated bar or pub right on Celtic’s grounds would take that a step further. It could be a place where fans gather regularly, not just on match days, to celebrate and connect with Celtic’s legacy. It’s surprising this hasn’t already happened, though the mixed success of Edmondson House across the city serves as a cautionary tale.
Across the river, the Ibrox club threw considerable resources at Edmiston House, expecting a financial windfall.
They dreamed of it as a multi-million-pound operation, conveniently overlooking the high costs of running it. While it might eventually turn a modest profit, it won’t be the goldmine they imagined. If Celtic were to pursue a similar venture, we’d need to be more realistic in our expectations and aware that it may bring modest financial returns at best.
A Celtic hotel has also been talked about for years, but here again, there are practical issues. A hotel represents a significant investment, with ongoing operational costs and modest returns in a highly competitive market.
Let’s put this into perspective: what sort of capacity would we be looking at? I’ve heard people discuss the idea of a 200-room facility; that’s wild. The Raddison Blu in the city centre is a 240 room facility. There is no way we’re building something comparable to that.
Even a smaller 50-room hotel would be a massive undertaking, and that’s before we consider Glasgow’s crowded hotel market. In addition, Celtic Park’s location, while perfect for match days, isn’t exactly prime tourist real estate.
Hypothetically, if we charged £100 per room per night, even filling every room every night—a feat in itself—would generate less than £2 million annually before expenses.
The reality is that such a hotel would struggle to be a profitable asset. Given these considerations, it’s no wonder we haven’t seen movement on this front.
Among all the ideas, the Celtic Museum stands out as the most feasible, meaningful, and popular. Unlike a hotel or bar, a museum isn’t about profit—it’s about heritage. This is a legacy project that would capture and immortalize the storied history of Celtic Football Club under one roof. It’s baffling that we haven’t already brought this vision to life.
Yes, building a museum would be costly and involve multiple stages, but it’s a project that doesn’t have to turn a profit to justify itself.
A Celtic Museum would provide a permanent space to celebrate our club’s history, offering fans and visitors an experience that transcends the pleasures of sitting have a meal or a drink in the umbrella of Celtic Park. This is the kind of facility fans would return to, time and again, to connect with our past and share it with future generations.
With the current financial stability, we finally have the means to make it happen. It’s not about the money; it’s about the will.
While a museum would be an incredible addition, we can’t ignore the pressing need for a main stand upgrade. Having a large tent outside the stadium on Champions League nights just doesn’t suit a club of Celtic’s stature.
An upgraded stand would not only elevate our facilities to modern standards. Many fans are holding out hope that if we’re going to invest in the main stand, we’ll see some expanded capacity, finally answering the long-standing demand for more season tickets.
Yesterday’s article on that was popular for a reason. This is something fans want.
For years, these ideas have been just possibilities; now, with funds available, we could finally bring them to life. Among all the projects, the Celtic Museum is the most compelling.
It wouldn’t just enhance the stadium experience but would give our history a dedicated home. This museum would be a place of pride, a tribute to our club’s incredible journey, and a destination fans would visit with reverence and joy over ad over again.
Of all the options Celtic might pursue, the museum seems the most attainable, meaningful, and desired by fans. It’s time to move from dreaming about it to making it a reality. Let’s lay the groundwork, and let’s get this project underway.
I think all those suggestions are valid but I would be happy if some of the money in our kitty was spent on hot water in the toilets!
A museum and a ‘Paradise’ Bar would be nice for Celtic supporters…
Then a 75,000 or 80,000 thousand all level roofed stadium when we finally join The European League…
And leaving Scottish Football behind as it’s mosr successful football club by a country mile which Celtic FC already very much are !