Newcastle United announced plans for a £190million state-of-the-art training complex at Woolsington Hall.
Newcastle City Council have caused a stir by appearing to downplay Newcastle United’s new training ground announcement.
The Magpies confirmed the £190million proposals on Thursday that will see a state-of-the-art complex built on Matfen Hall. Months of work behind the scenes eventually resulted in Newcastle fans finally learning the transformative news ahead of the new campaign.
The current base at Benton has improved significantly since the Saudi-backed takeover but remains short of the elite-level facilities at rival Premier League clubs. A new site is a statement of intent from the ownership and will add another string to Newcastle’s bow on their ambitious quest for global domination.
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David Hopkinson on new plans
On the “landmark” plans, Toon CEO David Hopkinson said: "This is a landmark moment for Newcastle United. Subject to planning permission, our proposed performance complex will create the world's best performance environment for our teams.
“We'll develop purpose-built facilities that are geared towards developing sustainable success in the future, where players, coaches and staff can perform at their very best every day. We will be submitting a detailed planning application that not only demonstrates our vision, but also how we will preserve and enhance an historic estate, its biodiversity and wildlife habitats, and how we'll be a great neighbour.
"I want to thank everyone who has played a role in getting us to this point today, and extend my gratitude to Sir John and the Hall family."
Newcastle City Council bizarre reaction
Newcastle City Council have provoked an intense backlash after making it clear on social media that the plans are not set in stone. A club statement did confirm that planning permission will be submitted in 2027.
We haven't received a formal planning application but this will be subject to the same consultation as any resident.
The council leader has said he is excited at the prospect of an #NUFC training ground back in our city boundaries🖤
Read his thoughts👉https://t.co/ZbZU3vlidZ https://t.co/BjsVb1rzRH
— Newcastle City Council (@NewcastleCC) August 20, 2026
Mixed messaging resulted in the council claiming to be “excited” by the plans - while insisting that local residents must be consulted first. Council leader Colin Ferguson also delivered an ambiguous update.
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"We can all agree that a thriving football club will always be a benefit to the city and the regional economy,” he said. “You need to look no further than the Carabao Cup celebrations to see the connection between our residents and the club.
"We are delighted that the proposals will bring the training ground back within our city’s boundaries once again and that there will be development that will benefit the wider area. However, it is also vitally important that any planning application that comes forward is properly consulted upon and that those living in the area have their say.
"Our independent planning committee will be robust in their challenge. As leader of the council, I rightly do not have influence over that process. Whatever moves forward must be to the benefit of all the city.”
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