Leeds United FC has unveiled plans to ‘re-imagine and enhance’ Elland Road, following the club regaining ownership of the stadium earlier this year.
Central to the regeneration plans is the stadium’s capacity. Currently, the stadium holds 37,645 seats, but the redevelopment aims to expand that to around 53,000, along with significantly enhanced general admission and hospitality amenities.
A major factor driving this change is that ticket demand consistently exceeds the available supply. Elland Road has sold out for every match in the past six years and there are currently 26,000 fans on the waiting list for season tickets.
Since taking ownership last July, 49ers Enterprises has been dedicated to maintaining the stadium’s famous atmosphere by bringing in specialist acoustic consultants. They have also hired a local transport consultant to assist with planning access routes and managing traffic throughout the construction phase.
In addition, the club and their professional team will focus on enhancing matchday travel plans to improve the experience for both residents and fans arriving at the stadium.
Paraag Marathe, Chair of Leeds United and President of 49ers Enterprises, said: “We recognise how important Elland Road is to the Leeds United fans and the wider community. The opportunity to refresh a century-old stadium, coupled with the legacy of Leeds United, is unprecedented.
“Our plans reinforce our commitment to the long-term success of the club and I am excited that we are going to be able to welcome thousands more supporters to every game, in a stadium that retains the unique atmosphere of Elland Road. We look forward to sharing our plans with supporters and the local community for their input.”
As with many stadiums in the UK, Elland Road is vital to the city and its enhancements are expected to positively influence the surrounding area. Councillor James Lewis, Leader of Leeds City Council, stated that this investment “can be a catalyst for wider regeneration plans of South Leeds”.
“Getting there [Ellland Road] will be easier with work to improve Leeds Station and the introduction of a White Rose rail station, along with the potential of a proposed mass transit route from the city centre close to the ground,” Lewis added.
“We’ve had some very positive initial meetings with their team and look forward to working with them on this important vision, to ensure this project moves forward and unlocks significant benefits to the city and its communities.”
