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A vision to guide the transformation of land around Leeds United’s Elland Road stadium is set to go before senior councillors in Leeds next week.
Members of Leeds City Council’s executive board will be updated on the proposed final draft of the Elland Road planning statement, which sets out principles for the future of around 30 acres of land surrounding the club’s famous ground.
The statement aims to provide design and planning guidance on any proposals that may be brought forward by landowners and developers in the area.
It has been described as one of the most significant development opportunities in the country with the potential to deliver a multi-billion pound boost to the city’s economy, provide around 2,000 new homes, as well as a series of leisure, education, public realm and commercial opportunities.
The final draft of the planning statement is the first time planning guidance for the area has been refreshed since 2007, and follows a public consultation last summer.
The statement comes after a planning application to expand the capacity of Elland Road to around 53,000 made further progress earlier this month, with the application deferred to the chief planning officer for approval.
A report to the executive board details some of the uses which could be acceptable for the land around the stadium under the new planning statement.
They include examples such as a new community sports arena, hotel accommodation and workspaces, as well as educational facilities linked to sport, health and wellbeing.
Any future development proposals brought forward would be subject to planning applications from landowners and developers and specific proposals would be subject to further public consultation.
As part of the proposals, connectivity between Elland Road and the city would also be improved, making it easier for people to choose active and sustainable modes of travel.
Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, said: “The land around Elland Road represents one of the most exciting development opportunities the city has seen for a generation, with the vast potential to completely transform and revitalise an area of Leeds steeped in local history and sporting heritage.
“This refreshed planning statement will act as both a guide and a catalyst for future proposals on the site, putting crucial elements in place that can enable the Elland Road area to be a year-round destination whilst also enhancing the existing neighbourhood and putting important new infrastructure in place.
“Combined with the club’s plans for the stadium, we believe this will see Elland Road become a standard bearer for sports and transport-led regeneration that the whole city can be proud of.”
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