Leeds United make big Elland Road expansion decision as masterplan is drawn up

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Leeds United have made a significant decision as the plans to redevelop the famous Elland Road stadium begin to take shape.

Although it is famed for its hostile atmosphere, Elland Road is in desperate need of renovation, with rival fans criticising the Leeds United ground recently.

A final planning decision on the proposed redevelopment of Elland Road is expected imminently as Leeds target a significant increase in revenue from increasing the capacity of the stadium.

The proposed redevelopment of the famous old stadium will increase the capacity of Elland Road from 37,392 to close to 56,000 in the most significant upgrade of the stadium since the mid-1990s.

Now, the club has made another significant decision as the project gathers pace, appointing a new firm of architects to oversee the redevelopment work.

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Leeds United appoint new architect for Elland Road redevelopment

According to a report in the Architects’ Journal, Leeds have appointed a new firm of architects to oversee the stadium upgrade.

Initially, KSS Design Group were appointed to carry out the work, having previously worked on the Main Stand redevelopment at Liverpool’s Anfield Stadium.

However, the report states that Leeds re-tendered the design role after lodging the application for planning permission for the project, awarding the contract to BDP Pattern, which has a studio based in Leeds.

BDP recently completed the work on Everton’s Bramley-Moore Dock stadium, which has been widely praised since it opened at the beginning of the season.

Speaking in the report, Luke Harrison, architect director at BDP, said: “Elland Road is the heart of Leeds United and the city itself. We know what this club means to its supporters and the wider community, and that’s why we understand the responsibility to create a legacy here.”

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Fans anxiously waiting for Elland Road updates

The first images of the proposed redevelopment were met with a wave of excitement by fans, as the 49ers look to bring Elland Road into the 21st century.

However, with the planning application still being considered, updates on the progress of the redevelopment are thin on the ground.

Daniel Farke’s frustrations in the transfer window demonstrate exactly why Leeds need the redevelopment, as they look to establish themselves as a force in the Premier League once again.

Although no one wants to lose Elland Road’s unique atmosphere, most fans recognise the need for the upgrade. With a huge season ticket waiting list and ageing corporate facilities, Leeds are missing out on important revenue streams that will help them compete with the biggest teams in the competition.