Newcastle United release new images showing ‘significant’ St James’ Park upgrade

Newcastle United have released new images showing the proposed St James’ Park fan zone on Strawberry Place.

The Magpies lodged an initial planning application to Newcastle City Council in July. If approved, it is hoped the fan zone will be open before the end of the year with an initial lifespan of three years as the club explores potential uses for the site, including possible expansion of the 52,000-seater stadium.

While United await the go-ahead, CGI images and the name ‘St. James’ STACK, powered by Sela’ were unveiled as a public consultation event held on Monday.

A club statement read: “This significant step in the planning process also gave those present an opportunity to provide face-to-face feedback to senior Newcastle United and STACK representatives as part of the formal planning process and follows a recent season ticket holder survey commissioned by the club.

“If approved, the fan zone will introduce a thriving food, drink and entertainment option for supporters visiting matches at St. James’ Park, as well as creating a bustling midweek leisure and social destination synonymous with the STACK brand.

“It will be supported by the club’s front-of-shirt partner, Sela - a pioneering destination and experiences organisation.

“Built using repurposed shipping containers around a central plaza and main stage area, ‘St. James’ STACK powered by Sela’ will be temporary construction that will attract people of all ages, with carefully curated events and attractions designed for families.”

The fan zone will host a ground and first floor, including a main stage, complete with a big screen, while there will be six bars and ten street food units. The site is set create 150 full-time and part-time jobs.

“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,” said Chief Executive Officer Darren Eales.

“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.”