Brad Miller has spoken about the club's plans to extend planning permission at the STACK
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Fan photos from Newcastle United v Everton at St. James' Park, Newcastle Upon Tyne
Newcastle United are yet to make a decision on St James' Park future(Image: Iain Buist/Newcastle Chronicle)
Newcastle United have been handed a major PSR boost after the St James' Park STACK was handed an additional five years of planning permission.
Whether the news at the 2,000-capacity fanzone drops any hints on a longer stay at St James' Park, with a 60,000 extension one of the options on the stadium project, remains to be seen while some could deem the news as part of a timeline for a move to Leazes Park.
Plans for a potential new stadium are still being discussed with a suggestion that 2031 - the year that the planning permission has been extended to - coincides with the year that the club would like to have their new venue ready for if they go down that route.
One fan posted to X after the club's announcement: "Is this a good thing? Appreciate it means revenue but what’s the reason for it being extended? Delays in developing/building a stadium?"
But Brad Miller, Chief Operating Officer at Newcastle United, said: "The St James’ STACK has been a fantastic addition to the city and we’re delighted to receive an additional five years of planning permission.
"As a dedicated fanzone, it has become a huge attraction for people attending matches and events at the stadium.
"But it’s so much more than that. It has been incredibly popular with families, it has increased trade throughout the week and it has created vital employment opportunities.
“It also provides an important revenue stream for the football club that will continue to fuel our growth on and off the pitch.
"I’d like to thank the team at STACK and our city partners for their support and collaboration.
"We’re excited to continue our work together."
A United statement also read: "Following a momentous first year, city planners have awarded the hugely popular ‘St. James’ STACK, presented by Sela’ an additional five years of planning permission.
"The 2,000-capacity fanzone and leisure destination – located beneath the iconic Gallowgate End of St James’ Park – was initially granted a three-year planning permission in 2023 before officially opening in 2024.
"Now, ahead of the first anniversary of its launch, the venue has received the green light to remain on the site until 2031 – giving football fans, concert goers and the wider public continued access to its unique blend of live entertainment, bars and globally-inspired street food."
NUFC fans enjoying live music at St James' STACK
NUFC fans enjoying live music at St James' STACK(Image: ChronicleLive)
STACK CEO Neill Winch said the decision to extend planning permission is not only hugely welcome but also a testament to the venue’s role in enhancing the matchday and event experience at St. James’ Park.
Winch said: "This location was always envisioned as a true fanzone – a place where supporters could come together before and after games to soak up the atmosphere.
"But what’s been incredible is how it’s also become a central hub for major events at the stadium, from cup celebrations to concert weekends like Sam Fender.
"Being right on the doorstep of St James’ Park means we’re perfectly placed to support everything happening there – and the response from fans and visitors has been phenomenal."
Chronicle Live understands that the STACK had clocked up profits of around £400,000 in the week leading up to Christmas alone with numbers over £1.5million potentially going into the coffers that month.