During match operations in the coming months, VfB's home ground will be transformed into a 'Pure' 'Football-Arena'. Construction work began with the sinking of the playing surface and the demolition of the 'Untertükheimer Kurve'. Subsequently, the main and EnBW' stands will be complemented by further rows of seats and a new 'Untertürkheimer' stand body will be erected. Integrated in the new construction - and absolutely unique in this manor - will be an indoor sport hall and ample business and hospitality areas. As soon as the new stand can be cleared for the fans to use, construction work will begin on the legendary 'Cannstatter-Kurve', which is directly opposite. There the VfB fans will find their new home, including a fan pub. Naturally the roof construction of the Mercedes-Benz Arena will be modified, to ensure all fans, whether seated or standing, can be shielded from the elements. Despite meticulous planning, small privations for some members of the public will be unavoidable.
"Some fans will, for example, have to surrender their usual places and temporarily accept alternative solutions. We will be doing all in our power to insure that any inconveniences are kept to an absolute minimum," ensured Stefan Heim, who as VfB crew director and manager of the 'Stadion Neckarpark GmbH' has a vital role to play in the reconstruction at the Mercedes-Benz Arena: "Naturally the total spectator capacity will be reduced during the construction phases," explained Stefan Heim, and he added: "At every time during the building measures, a minimum of 39,000 people will be able to watch our home games here."
