LUFC submit Elland Road overhaul plans

Following consultation and an airing at the council’s city plans panel, Premier League football club Leeds United have lodged proposals to expand their stadium.

Consultation took place across April, May and June, with supporters and the local community invited to offer feedback on plans.

The application includes a detailed plan for the West Stand, along with an outline application for the North Stand/Kop.

Elland Road’s capacity will go from around 37,000 to 53,000, helping the club meet demand for tickets, with 26,000 supporters currently on the season ticket waiting list. Hospitality facilities will be beefed up.

Club owner 49ers Enterprises has employed a project team which alongside KSS includes structural engineers Buro Happold, and a management team at RISE.

Leeds’ plans were met warmly when discussed at Leeds City Council’s city plans panel, and this was reflected in the overall feedback, with 98% of respondents supporting the club’s overall proposals to enhance Elland Road, a ground regarded well for atmosphere but one with amenities that have fallen behind the times.

Further results showed 97% of respondents supported an increase in capacity, 98% of respondents supported the design plans and 99% of respondents supported the economic benefits being delivered locally.

LUFC chief business officer Morrie Eisenberg said: “We are delighted to submit a planning application to Leeds City Council, on schedule with our proposed timeline of the project.

“This is a result of the hard work of everyone involved over the past 18 months, where designs and concepts have been developed to revitalise Elland Road Stadium, whilst preserving the unique history and heritage it holds.

“I would like to thank everyone who took the time to go to the public exhibition at the Centenary Pavilion and the consultation sessions in the local community, with over 1,800 people visiting in person, and those who completed the questionnaire and provided us with invaluable comments and feedback, which have all been considered.

“As a club, we believe this development will provide great economic benefits to the local community and will be a catalyst for a regeneration of the area.”

A final decision on the application is now expected to be made within approximately 13 weeks.