Plans to redevelop Leeds United’s stadium have been revealed, and according to finance expert Stefan Borson, it could become an important "event hub" for the city. The club has operated at Elland Road since 1919, and the primary goal of the modernization is to increase the capacity to around 53,000 seats.

Inspired by the American model

The club announced this week that consulting firm Rise, architects KSS, and structural engineers Buro Happold will be working on the project. The main contractor has not yet been announced. One of the main objectives of the project is to maintain and enhance the unique atmosphere of Elland Road. The construction will be carried out in phases to retain as many seats as possible during the works, as Leeds does not intend to seek a temporary stadium.

Leeds regained ownership of the stadium earlier this year, 20 years after it was sold to an investment company owned by the former parent company. Last year, the club was bought by 49ers Enterprises, owners of the San Francisco 49ers, an NFL team. The owners announced that they will use knowledge and experience gained in the United States, where they oversaw the construction of Levi's Stadium, for the modernization of Elland Road. The statement added that acoustic consultants will be hired to ensure the preservation of the unique atmosphere of Elland Road.

© Mark Lee (Flickr)

Opportunity for the entire region

Leeds City Council Chairman James Lewis said, Expanding and improving the existing stadium will allow significantly more fans access to matches, and the investment could also serve as a catalyst for wider regeneration plans in South Leeds, which is a nationally significant opportunity.