It's not just the fans who are eagerly awaiting the results of the Newcastle United stadium feasibility study. Architects from around the world are also curious about what will happen next with St James' Park, including Aaron Fletcher, director of Manica, who stated that he "would love to get involved if given the opportunity."

Preserving the heritage

There’s something wonderful about the pitch truly being at the heart of the city, Fletcher said in an interview with ChronicleLive. It's part of the lifeblood of the city, so it would be a shame if a new stadium was on the outskirts. He also mentioned that there are always solutions if the finances allow. It’s amazing what can be designed. Manica is certainly well-positioned to observe this situation. The American firm has worked on stadium projects for NFL teams like the Chicago Bears, Tennessee Titans, and Las Vegas Raiders, as well as football clubs such as Inter Miami and Dinamo Moscow. Manica was also involved in the renovation of Progressive Field, the 11th oldest baseball stadium in Major League Baseball, and provided technical design services for the redevelopment of Camp Nou.

According to Fletcher, the challenge for Newcastle, whether it involves expansion or redevelopment, is to preserve the heritage of what already exists and what is important while making sure it aligns with the club’s business plan.

© Paul Watson

Following trends from the USA

Newcastle is working on the final questions of the feasibility study to explore the art of the possible. Newcastle’s CEO, Darren Eales, is already familiar with how the world’s best stadiums function, having been associated with Atlanta United, whose home is Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Meanwhile, Bill Johnson from the HOK firm was the lead designer of that arena. The American architect sees potential in Newcastle doing everything it can to expand St James’ Park.

Johnson described Mercedes-Benz Stadium as the most challenging and ambitious project he has worked on. He believes the stadium set a new benchmark for the arenas that followed in the USA. Eddie Howe, Newcastle’s manager, called the stadium a fantastic place to play football, adding that words can’t express the appreciation for its design and atmosphere after the Magpies played Chelsea there in a friendly match in front of more than 70,000 fans.

© Mark Walker