We are halfway through September yet Newcastle United supporters are still in the dark about St James’ Park’s future. That is despite being promised an update in “early 2025” by Brad Miller, the club’s Chief Operating Officer.
Debate has raged across Tyneside in recent years as Newcastle consider whether to revamp the current ground - an icon of North East football - or propel themselves into the 21st century with a state-of-the-art venue. Those on either side of the argument can create a compelling case.
Fresh pressures have arose in recent weeks, with Save Newcastle Wildlife petitioning against a new stadium being built on Leazes Park. Newcastle City Council were keen to stress that no final decision has been made.
Every Toon fan appears to be having their say on social media about what the ultimate decision should be. David Hopkinson - appointed as Newcastle’s CEO earlier this month - dropped a big hint on St James’ Park’s direction.
"Each team I worked for was the most important thing in that community,” he told supporters. “And the arena or stadium is situated in the centre of the city. I haven't worked for one where it was in a suburb, 15 miles from downtown.
“That is really important. Where ScotiaBank Arena is in Toronto, or where the Bernabeu is in Madrid, right on Castellana. Where Madison Square Garden is, the absolute heart of Manhattan. Where St James' Park is in Newcastle. Location matters.
"What’s clear to me is how much the pride people in Newcastle have for their community is expressed as love for Newcastle United. That's awesome. That's energising. That's exciting. That's what matters. Not every team in every community can claim that."
Amid the drama, stadium concept designer and 3D animator Damian Bosio produced several breathtaking suggestions to solve the conundrum via his YouTube channel, Bondibot. The first option sees the Gallowgate End increased to the same height as the Milburn and Leazes stands.
Secondly, Bosio proposes moving the pitch altogether, allowing for further wiggle room in the Gallowgate and East Stand. The final design shows how a new stadium could be built that encroaches into Leazes Park - a possible nightmare for local preservation groups. Check out all three propositions below.
13. Same height all around
This concept would see all four stands the same height. | Bondibot
14. How will it impact the listed buildings?
The concept suggests the listed buildings would not be impacted by the expansion should the pitch be raised and moved. However, exact measurements and architectural designs could suggest otherwise. This design as is would also impact the residents 'right to light' easement on Leazes Terrace. | Bondibot
15. Capacity?
This expansion would likely increase St James' Park's capacity to in excess of 60,000 despite losing a lot of seating from the Leazes Stand and Milburn Stand due to the pitch being moved. | Bondibot
16. A new stadium?
A new stadium built on Leazes Park has also been discussed. | Bondibot