Newcastle United fan zone to open by the end of the year at Strawberry Place

Newcastle United have begun the planning application process for the new fan zone at Strawberry Place and have shared the initial design.

The club has also revealed it is aiming to open the zone before the end of the year.

In partnership with the club’s front-of-shirt sponsorship Sela and STACK, the construction is set to offer food, drink and entertainment for supporters, but will also be open when there is not a match on.

Made from shipping containers synonymous with the STACK brand, the fan zone will have a central plaza and main stage area.

The space will initially only be open for three years as ‘the club explores potential uses for the site.’

Darren Eales said: “Our fan zone is aimed at enhancing the experience not just for supporters visiting matches and big events at the stadium, but for people visiting the city centre seven days a week.

“Submitting initial plans is just the first stage and there are a lot of steps in the process, but we are excited to continue working with our commercial and city partners to create something that will really add social and economic value to the location.”

The fan zone will create 150 full-time and part-time jobs, with Newcastle United Foundation’s employability programme- NU Futures- linking with it to give local people new opportunities.

Neill Winch, CEO of STACK, said: “The joint venture with Newcastle United to create a fan zone in the city centre is exciting for many reasons, not least of which is the coming together of two great North East brands.

“We believe this development is going to be a huge asset, not just to the club and its amazing fans, but to the city as a whole.

“While STACK is now growing to become a national chain, the fact that our very first venture was in Newcastle means it has a special place in our affections.

“We are delighted to be working with the club and Sela to provide a ‘best in class’ experience for fans and the community, not only on match days, but every day of the week.”