The first steps in the planned expansion of Leeds United’s stadium Elland Road have been given the green light by the city council. During a meeting, Leeds City Council’s board of directors voted unanimously to transfer the municipal land around the stadium to the football club.
This transfer is necessary for the expansion work to be carried out.
The city councillors also gave approval to enter into a letter of intent with the club’s development partner, Lowy Family Group – a formal, but not legally binding agreement on the development terms.
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The committee was briefed on a major redevelopment project for the Elland Road area, which includes plans for new transport links and upgrading of facilities. Future public consultation on these plans is underway.
Leeds United’s plan increase application refers to a potential expanded capacity of up to 56,500 spectators. Today’s unanimous approval from the city council marks a major step forward in realizing the expansion plans.
The proposed capacity increase would place Elland Road among the top 10 largest football stadiums in England.
A spokesperson for Leeds City Council confirmed the vote on Wednesday afternoon, saying: “Leeds City Council’s executive committee has just unanimously approved the ambitious redevelopment project to make newly promoted LUFC’s Elland Road stadium one of the largest in the country.”
At the same time, the city council will light up its Civic Hall and other buildings in Leeds United’s colours on Thursday and Friday to celebrate promotion to the Premier League.
The city council is currently in talks with the club about a bus parade next month.
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