Leeds United poised to expand Elland Road capacity to 56,500 with 'immanent' application expected
Leeds City Council says it could turn Elland Road into one of the largest stadiums in the country.
Leeds City Council say they're expecting an 'imminent' planning application from Leeds United for a major expansion of Elland Road.
If approved, the club would be able to boost the capacity of the ground in South Leeds to 56,500, making it one of the largest football stadiums in the country by seating.
Land around the stadium would also be redeveloped as part of billions of pounds worth of investment into the area.
Senior Councillors were updated on the plans, which would see the local authority team up with investor LFG on the regeneration scheme.
Councillor James Lewis, leader of Leeds City Council, said: “Elland Road and Leeds United are part of the heart and soul of the city, and the club deserves a stadium befitting of its special status and incredible fans.
“Naturally we’re keen to support this however we can, and to work closely with the club to ensure they are in the best possible position to achieve their ambitions and build a bigger, brighter future for the club, their supporters and sport in the city.
“From a wider perspective, the regeneration of the Elland Road area also represents one of the city’s most exciting development opportunities for a generation, which would revitalise a huge area of Leeds and potentially bring hundreds of millions of pounds into our local economy."
Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin said: “I'm excited by the ambition and courage Leeds United are showing in their plans to transform the city into one of the country’s sporting superpowers.
“Elland Road and the surrounding area have huge potential for regeneration and growth – its great to see the club and Leeds City Council cooperating on such an impressive scheme.
“Alongside our work to bring trams back to the region, the pieces are coming together to create a brighter and better-connected region for everyone.”