Multi-million pound investment for Headingley Stadium approved

The deal brokered by Leeds City Council will secure top-level international sport at Headingley.

It's estimated that the new stands could generate additional expenditure of £107.3 million over the period between 2017 and 2023.

Leader of the Council, Judith Blake said:

“I am pleased that executive board has backed the deal which we have arranged with a private third-party investor to fund the redevelopment of Headingley Carnegie Stadium.

“It’s vital for both the city and the region that Headingley continues to host high-class international and domestic sport. With the tight timescales which are involved for this work to begin, this route offers the best and most viable option moving forward. As part of this agreement, the cost of financing the development will be met by both the rugby and cricket clubs at no cost to the tax-payer.

“Headingley is a historic sporting venue recognised around the world. In hosting top-class matches it brings a large international profile and significant economic benefits to Leeds and the wider region.

'A good day for the city'

The decision has been welcomed Leeds Rhinos, who have pledged to provide an additional £5 million towards the total cost of redeveloping the ground.

Chief Executive of the club Gary Hetherington says "This is really good news and a significant step towards our plan to bring the re-development of Headingley Carnegie Stadium to fruition.

"Councillor Judith Blake and her team at Leeds City Council are to be congratulated for managing what has been a very difficult and complex issue extremely well. Both Leeds Rhinos and Yorkshire County Cricket are grateful for their support and we now hope to make a final announcement in the near future.

"There are still a number of outstanding issues to be worked through but we are confident they can be addressed. It is a good day for the City, the County, Yorkshire County Cricket, Leeds Rhinos and Yorkshire Carnegie," added Hetherington.