Ahead of Christmas, Leeds United have shared more information regarding the club’s plans and planning application sent to Leeds City Council in July for the redevelopment of Elland Road.
Leeds proposed a planning application in the summer to the council which sees Elland Road increased from a capacity just underneath 38,000, to a whopping 53,000. Crucial, with the season ticket waiting list.
How excited are you for this? 🏟️
The noise of an Elland Road with 15000 more fans is going to be mad!
A massive 26,000 fans are currently waiting to get their hands on a season ticket, and so, the increase in capacity by more than 15,000 will see at least half of those waiting in the wings finally get their chance.
Information and updates have been sparse but in the lead-up to Christmas, Leeds have released more information and, crucially, what happens to the south stand while Elland Road development is ongoing.
Leeds confirm no changes to South Stand as 49ers listen
Fans are excited to see an Elland Road with more than 50,000 fans and a stadium that would share capacity with the likes of St. James’ Park, the Hill Dickinson, the Etihad, Hampden Park and even Ibrox.
But, there are concerns as to what happens during development to the beloved South Stand, where the most vociferous of Leeds’ support stems. Well, Leeds have now delivered an update on the South Stand.
There were concerns that while work was ongoing, away supporters may have to be moved to the South Stand. Currently, away fans sit adjacent to the raucous South Stand, in the corner of the West Stand.
Well, Leeds have rubbished that, confirming away fans will remain where they are despite the work being done. Indeed, the statement makes it clear that the 49ers are listening and know the South Stand is key.
“Away supporters will remain housed within the West Stand both during and after the potential project is completed, and the entirety of the seating behind the South Stand goal will remain home supporters only.
“Everyone at the club recognises the impact the support of the South Stand can have on the pitch and how this helps Elland Road create an atmosphere which is envied across the world,” the statement read.
Are you worried that Elland Road will lose its intimidating atmosphere in the rebuild? 😤🏟️
The 49ers have big plans for Leeds' famous old ground 🤔
When will Leeds hear of the Council’s Elland Road decision?
Just this week, a planning officers report has recommended to the council that the project be given the go-ahead. Good news for Leeds, given that decisions like this can often be completely out of their hands.
Leeds will now have to wait until January 8 to hear the next development on the process of getting approval with a plans panel meeting scheduled then. After that, Leeds hope to be given full approval.
Obviously, it would be a lot easier to pull off if Leeds manage to remain in the Premier League and that is down to Daniel Farke and the squad. Six points above the drop zone and unbeaten four, are good signs.
If Leeds stay up and Elland Road is given the green light, LeedsUnited.News understands gate receipts could quickly exceed £55m in a normal season, with current estimates of around £40m.
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