St James’ Park expansion plans revealed amid unprecedented Newcastle United ticket demand

Newcastle United are exploring ways to expand St James’ Park following an unprecedented ticket demand following the takeover.

Thousands of fans missed out on season tickets in the summer, a huge contrast to the 2019-2020 season when the club had to give away 10,000 season tickets under Mike Ashley due to faltering attendances.

Now, those supporters on the waiting list are forced to queue for tickets on a game-by-game basis, or, if unsuccessful, watch from home.

That has led to calls to expand St James’ Park and chief executive Darren Eales has confirmed that is on the agenda.

“It’s one of the areas we’re looking at,” Eales told local reporters.

“It’s a champagne problem because we’re sold out and it’s not a situation like the past when you’re almost giving away season tickets to fill the stadium.”

Earlier this year, co-owner Mehrdad Ghodoussi said leaving St James’ Park “would be like tearing your soul out”. Eales reiterated that the club does not want to relocate.

“It’s an amazing location. I love the fact we’re here in the city with 108 pubs within half a mile. It’s the best ground to come to for away supporters in my view because of its location and atmosphere.

“The reality is, we are in a situation where we are limited in capacity. We’ll obviously be looking at if there are ways we can flex that and that’s one of the things we will be looking at over time.”

Expanding St James’ Park, however, is easier said than done. Behind the East Stand are listed buildings and Ashley controversially sold Strawberry Place - the land situated behind the Gallowgate End - for a small profit in 2019.