Elland Road is where Leeds United will gain most of their points this season and the opening two games on home soil have shown how much supporters will play a role in the club’s destiny.
All four points so far have been won in LS11, with two more home matches coming up after the trip to Wolverhampton Wanderers this Saturday. A few weeks after the visit of Tottenham Hotspur could come a very important verdict.
Leeds United FC formally submitted their two-phase plans to expand Elland Road in July, with the verdict hoped to be given in October. Information on Leeds City Council’s planning portal shows a ‘determination’ date of October 7.
However, according to the council’s website, ‘City Plans Panel’ meetings - in which the approval will either be given or denied - have been cancelled until October 30. Either way, it seems evident the decision will be made before Halloween.
If approved, as expected, work on the main project could begin in the first few months of next year. Early estimations project the West Stand - Phase 1 - to be completed by 2028 with the North Stand in - Phase 2 - to be finished by late 2030.
Capacity will rise to 53,000 once construction is complete. There has been wide support for the proposals within council and civic circles.
Consultation has been undertaken with residents and fan groups, with the club hosting an exhibition in May. The expansion is hoped to be incorporated into the council’s wider regeneration of the Elland Road eara.
These council plans were put before potential investors in May and community members were invited to have their say this summer. This rejuvenation initiative could include new homes, business spaces and parking - though it could take up to 20 years to complete.
The first spades in the ground on the proposed Mass Transit network are forecasted for 2028. Two proposed routes run adjacent to Elland Road stadium.
One main issue raised by residents located near to the stadium in regards to the capacity expansion is the increased traffic in the area. The club has acknowledged this concern, though says there is no “silver bullet” solution.
Documents outline how the aim is to encourage match-goers to use public transport. Meanwhile, a potential site for a further 1,200 parking spaces has been located. Of the 1,057 public comments submitted to the council, 1,012 supported the proposals with 22 objections lodged.
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