Leeds United has filed a planning request with Leeds City Council to enhance Elland Road Stadium.
As newcomers to the Premier League, the club intends to make Elland Road one of the largest stadiums in the country.
Credit: X @LUFC
This development follows a series of public consultations held from April to June, allowing fans and the local community to weigh in on the proposals.
The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with 98% of participants supporting the increase in Elland Road’s capacity. Additionally, 97% favored the proposed design plans and an impressive 99% acknowledged the potential local economic benefits.
The application focuses on the West Stand, with plans for enhancements to the North Stand. These upgrades aim to boost facilities, including general admission and hospitality options, increasing the stadium’s capacity from 37,792 to 53,000 to better meet ticket demand.
Morrie Eisenberg, Leeds United’s Chief Business Officer, expressed excitement about submitting the planning application on time, citing 18 months of collaborative efforts to refresh Elland Road while maintaining its historical significance. He thanked the community for their participation, noting that over 1,800 people engaged through consultations.
Leading Football Stadiums in the UK
| Ranking | Stadium | Capacity |
| 1 | Wembley Stadium | 90,000 |
| 2 | Old Trafford | 74,310 |
| 3 | Principality Stadium | 73,931 |
| 4 | Tottenham Hotspur Stadium | 62,850 |
| 5 | London Stadium | 62,500 |
| 6 | Anfield | 61,276 |
| 7 | Emirates Stadium | 60,704 |
| 8 | Celtic Park | 60,411 |
| 9 | Etihad Stadium | 53,400 |
| 10 | St James’ Park | 52,305 |
The stadium revitalization is anticipated to offer significant economic advantages to the neighborhood, potentially becoming a catalyst for local regeneration. With 26,000 fans currently on the season ticket waiting list, the expansion is crucial to accommodate demand.
Leeds City Council Leader Cllr James Lewis remarked that the club and stadium are integral to the city, deserving facilities that reflect their status and the passionate fanbase. He emphasized the broader regeneration plans for the Elland Road area, which could inject substantial funds into the local economy.
Having been home to Leeds United since 1919, Elland Road has seen multiple renovations, with the latest major update completed in 2012. The last expansion occurred 31 years ago, enhancing its all-seater capacity by adding 7,000 seats.
