Highbury revisited: A new life for Arsenal's historic former ground
Flashscore explored the location of the former stadium, which now enjoys a fresh purpose in the centre of a classic North London area.
May 7th, 2006. Premier League matchday 38. 3pm. For one last occasion, the Arsenal first team, led by Thierry Henry, stepped out from the Highbury tunnel onto the field, preparing to play Wigan Athletic.
It had been two years since the Invincibles' championship victory, yet the aim had shifted: clinching qualification for the Champions League. Arsene Wengers squad made the send off into an enchanting occasion.
Thierry Henry netted a hat trick as Tottenham fell to West Ham. Arsenal surpassed their north London opponents to claim fourth position and entry into Europes top tournament.
From his seat in the East Stand, Michael, aged 86 today, recalls that evening from two decades past.
“That was the ideal farewell to Highbury, an unforgettable day,” he shared with Flashscore.
Our discussion started within Highbury, entered almost accidentally. Emerging from Arsenal tube station, we ascended Highbury Hill, where foliage and building facades offer no clue to the proximity of one of the 20th centurys most legendary football venues.
A trace of a bygone time, when the team formed the core of the local district, contrasting sharply with todays isolated arenas of the 21st century, constructed in expansive zones alongside retail hubs and increasingly remote from nearby residents.
“In those days, access to the presidents club was possible, I even encountered players, we passed by the changing areas now its out of reach. They feel almost distant,” Michael reflected, indicating the East Stand, his former season ticket location the same section he occupies now at the Emirates.
“Highbury suited me better.”
A fresh beginning
Situated merely 300 metres from the Emirates, Highbury avoided total demolition. Following that enchanting day in 2006, it gained a renewed role.
After serving as Arsenals base for 93 years, the venue became a housing development named Highbury Square. The terraces once filled with supporters now form the framework for apartments with one, two, or three bedrooms, plus penthouses.
Without the retained exteriors and informative signs, visitors might not suspect they stand where Henry and Bergkamp dazzled as part of the Invincibles, or where John Radford and Jon Sammels struck twice in rapid succession for a renowned recovery against Anderlecht in the 1970 Inter Cities Fairs Cup final.
These days, older inhabitants walk their pets in the area, or families rush back with youngsters after work, on soil once revered by countless London supporters.
It launched officially in 2009 and now stands nearly fully inhabited.
Ciara, a recent arrival with her partner, counts herself among the dwellers. “Arsenal isnt my team, yet its wonderful to be enveloped in this vibe," she noted.
"My partner follows football keenly and adores it. Residing within a stadium feels truly unique many of my acquaintances back Arsenal and envy us greatly.”
Two decades later, Arsenal appear poised to secure the Premier League title, their first since relocating to the Emirates.
This would mark the eras initial major festivity, with Highburys influence and echoes of former triumphs persisting where kids play nearby today.