Leeds United have revealed they have recevied planning permission to go ahead with the development of a 53,000-seater stadium that they are looking to expand Elland Road into.
The Whites confirmed the news on Thursday, which they described as ‘a historic milestone for the club, its supporters, and the city of Leeds.’
The club are looking to expand the West and North Stands of the ground, while also altering the South Stand in plans that will transform the ground into a UEFA Category 4 stadium. They shared pictures of the proposed redevelopment last year.
Leeds have said fans can look forward to ‘improved seating comfort and sightness,’ ‘enhanced concourses’ and ‘the preservation of Elland Road’s renowned atmosphere and acoustics.’
Chairman Paraag Marathe said: ‘We are delighted to have secured planning permission for the expansion of Elland Road Stadium. This is a historic day for Leeds United Football Club.
‘As custodians of this great club, we are committed to its long-term success, and today’s decision supports our ambition to establish Leeds in the Premier League and continue progressing over the years to come. I would like to thank everyone involved in the project to date, for helping us reach this point.’
Leeds have confirmed that they have received planning permission to expand Elland Road
Leeds unveiled their stadium plans last year as they bid to increase the Elland Road capacity to 53,000
Work will begin at the end of the season and the ground will stay open throughout
Owners 49ers Enterprises have employed a project team which includes sports specialist architects KSS, structural engineers Buro Happold, and a management team at RISE.
KSS have recent experience in the field when it comes to enhancing current venues – the firm oversaw the development of the Main Stand and the Anfield Road stand at Anfield taking the capacity of Liverpool’s home ground from approximately 45,000 to 61,276.
Fans and locals will get the opportunity to visit a public exhibition at Elland Road or consultation events as part of ensuring the process is accessible and have been asked by the club to share their views and thoughts.
Leeds said that enabling works will commence ‘immediately’, with major construction activity scheduled to begin following the end of the season.
They added: ‘Elland Road will remain open throughout the expansion, ensuring the club continues to play its home matches at its historic home.
‘Further updates will be shared with supporters and stakeholders as the project progresses.’
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Leeds receive planning permission to expand Elland Road to 53,000-capacity stadium as they share images of proposed redevelopment