England: Newcastle’s new stadium closer to reality – 65,000 capacity proposed

14.03.2025 21:54 source: StadiumDB.com; author: Paulina Skóra

Newcastle United is preparing to present its plans for a new stadium to the government, which will need to approve the project.

Newcastle’s decision: Time for a new venue

It seems almost certain that the UK government will give the green light for this initiative, helping to navigate bureaucratic hurdles in a project that could create hundreds of new jobs and support the local economy. Once approved, the decision on the plans will be made public and shared with fans. Governor of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, Yasir Al-Rumayyan, who fully supports the project, along with the Saudi owners of the club, reviewed the plans during a board meeting at Matfen Hall last month. Chief Operating Officer Brad Miller and CEO Darren Eales suggested that building an entirely new stadium would be the best solution for Newcastle, which is striving to meet the Premier League’s Profitability and Sustainability regulations.

Is the proposed capacity too small?

Newcastle had considered redeveloping St James’ Park, but these plans were put aside in favor of moving to the nearby Leazes Park. This move would allow the club to keep the stadium in the city center, which is of significant importance. St James’ Park is considered the heart of the city, a relatively unique feature in football. The plans are reportedly still in the early stages, but some board members were surprised by the sketches. The new stadium is expected to have an exterior façade reminiscent of bubble wrap, similar to Bayern Munich’s Allianz Arena, and a park-style approach inspired by Wembley Way.

According to the latest information, the new Newcastle United stadium will have a capacity of 65,000 seats, which has raised doubts about whether the arena will be large enough. Former Newcastle defender John Anderson shares this view. I think a lot of people would say this won’t be a big enough stadium. A few weeks ago, we were at a league match in Liverpool. I spoke to a few people there, and they said they could still expand Anfield, Anderson said on the BBC Radio Newcastle podcast.