Stadium breakthrough for Newcastle United as date ‘set’ for ‘game-changing’ 60,000 expansion

Newcastle United will begin expanding St James’ Park following the upcoming Premier League season, according to reports.

A feasibility study conducted earlier this year led to Toon chiefs preferring an expansion over a new stadium. The Magpies have played at their current home since 1892 and the ground has become an iconic Tyneside symbol.

But the new regime are desperate to increase revenue streams to compete with European heavyweights. Only Old Trafford and Wembley boasted greater capacities in England when St James’ Park was given its last major upgrade in 2000.

However, Newcastle now sit seventh in the attendance figures, with clubs like Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United leapfrogging them in recent years. Previous attempts by Sir John Hall to expand the capacity failed, with Leazes Park Terrace and Leazes Park - grade I and grade II listed structures - stopping proposals dead.

However, the Magpies have consulted leading architects from across the world to devise a cunning plan. Those who designed the funky £4.8billion SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles - one of the 2026 World Cup venues - have been contacted.

Other obstacles included the St James Metro Station located near the Gallowgate End. But Newcastle chiefs are confident they can get the green light to begin work next year.

Football Insider claim construction could begin in 2025 once the upcoming season is finished. A bumper 60,000-seater stadium - an increase of 8,000 - will be welcome news for supporters who have struggled for tickets since Mike Ashley’s exit in October 2021.