England: First renderings of redeveloped Elland Road unveiled!
source: StadiumDB.com; author: Paulina Skóra
Leeds United has released the first visualizations showing what Elland Road could look like if the proposed redevelopment plans are approved.
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What changes are planned?
The proposals to modernize the stadium and increase its capacity from 37,645 to 56,500 seats were approved last week by the executive board of Leeds City Council. The estimated final capacity, according to the ongoing project, is around 53,000 seats. Such an expansion would place Elland Road among the ten largest football stadiums in England.
The project of the bigger Leeds United venue, published by the club earlier this week, presents the planned redevelopment of the West and North Stands, as well as updates to the South Stand. The project aims to enhance the experience for both general admission fans and hospitality guests. Currently, Leeds United has a waiting list of 26,000 supporters for season tickets.
Anfield Road as inspiration and fan consultation process
The club’s owners, 49ers Enterprises, have assembled a project team comprising sports architects from KSS, structural engineers from Buro Happold, and project managers from RISE. KSS brings experience in upgrading existing stadiums, having overseen the expansion of Liverpool’s Main Stand and Anfield Road Stand, increasing Anfield’s capacity from approximately 45,000 to 61,276 seats. The visualizations for the new-look Elland Road suggest strong inspiration from Liverpool’s redevelopment.
The club stated its intention to modernize and enhance the stadium.
Both the West and North Stands are set to be rebuilt, with improvements also planned for the South Stand. Leeds regained full ownership of Elland Road last year for the first time since 2004. In the near future, fans and local residents will have the opportunity to visit a public exhibition at the stadium or participate in public consultations, aimed at ensuring transparency throughout the process. The club encourages supporters to share their feedback and suggestions.
Paraag Marathe, President 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.
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