Fire causes up to £100k damage at Exeter City stadium as cleanup begins

A fire at Exeter City Football Club’s St James Park on Wednesday night has caused significant damage to parts of the stadium, with repair and cleanup work now in full swing.

The blaze broke out around 10pm near the Well Street end of the ground, affecting the building between the Adam Stansfield Stand and the Away end.

It destroyed a waste storage area and caused damage to the first aid and control rooms, as well as to the side of the Adam Stansfield Stand. 

The club estimates the total cost of repairs could be up to £100,000, though assessments are ongoing.

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The control room and first aid facilities are crucial for matchday operations, including monitoring CCTV and coordinating the safety team. 

Despite the damage, the club has confirmed it is working to have the stadium fully operational for its next home game on 22 November and is not considering temporary alternative venues.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue confirmed the fire was accidental, originating in an area used for waste storage, and ruled out an electrical fault as the cause. The club thanked firefighters, local businesses, and community members for their rapid response and support following the incident.

The Exeter City Supporters’ Trust has launched a fundraising campaign to assist with repair costs. The campaign, promoted through the trust’s website and social media channels, has already received messages of support from fans and local organisations.

A club spokesperson said: “Cleanup work is already underway, and we are extremely grateful for everyone involved for their swift response and support. We are focused on ensuring St James Park is safe and ready for our upcoming fixtures.”