St James’ STACK awarded planning extension - site has welcomed thousands of visitors since opening last summer
The venue opened last summer (Image credit: STACK)
The 2,000-capacity fanzone and leisure destination at St James' Park has secured extended planning permission, ahead of its one year anniversary at the site, in a "hugely welcome" move.
STACK, located beneath the iconic Gallowgate End of the stadium, was initially granted a three-year planning permission in 2023, before launching in 2024.
It has now received the green light to remain on the site until 2031.
Crafted from 56 repurposed shipping containers, the site is a collaboration between STACK and Newcastle United. It has transformed a former car park at Strawberry Place into a vibrant social space that includes a central plaza, main stage and large, immersive screens.
Employing 175 people, the venue is a base for eight small businesses and has hosted 1,426 stage performances since opening.
Just last week (w/c 9 June), it welcomed 35,000 concert-goers across three days of performances by Sam Fender at St James’ Park.
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"
STACK chief executive Neill Winch said the decision to extend planning permission is not only "hugely welcome," but "a testament to the venue's role in enhancing the matchday and event experience at St James' Park".
"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."
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