Newcastle United have made a significant step forward in their ambition to build a new stadiumwith the purchase of the historic Leazes Terrace building behind St James’ Park.
The Grade A listed buildings were considered a major barrier preventing the expansion of the East Stand, the smallest part of the ground.
But since the club now owns them, it frees up many options as Newcastle look to build a larger stadium.
Although purchasing the Georgian-era buildings would, in theory, give Newcastle more scope to expand St James’ Park, it would also benefit them if they wish to construct a new home on the adjacent land at Leazes Park.
As revealed by Telegraph Sport, one of the plans discussed for a new stadium was to turn St James’ Park into a new public greenspace to replace the parkland lost when the new stadium was built.
There are also plans for a new leisure complex, with Leazes Terrace opening onto the boulevard leading up to the new ground.
The club insist they will not demolish the buildings or change the appearance of Leazes Terrace, which is part of a wider conservation area, which would suggest this is not linked to the expansion of St James’ Park at this stage.
However, if plans to build a new stadium are thwarted, it would appear to give Newcastle more flexibility to redesign their current home.
In a statement, Newcastle United said: “Newcastle United has completed the purchase of a significant portion of the historic Leazes Terrace building next to St. James’ Park.
“The acquisition of a substantial majority of the Grade I listed structure includes its northern, southern and western elevations – including all areas facing the stadium.
“It also includes most of its eastern elevation, with a small block of private residences remaining in this part of the building.
“This strategic purchase is part of the club’s long-term planning as it continues to assess all credible and feasible options for the future of its home stadium.
“It provides Newcastle United with greater flexibility and ensures any future decisions support the club’s ambitions, as well as its responsibilities to the local community and the city of Newcastle upon Tyne.
“The club recognises the building’s historic and architectural significance and is committed to its preservation.”
The buildings currently house student accommodation and Newcastle will receive the rental income from those flats and rooms, which will help the club meet Premier League financial rules in the future.
Newcastle’s preference throughout the feasibility study into a new stadium has been to build a purpose-built arena with a capacity between 65,000 and 68,000.
They are talking to interested parties about selling a minority stake in the club to help fund its construction.
The club remains adamant that a final decision on whether to expand and modernise St James’ Park or move to a new home, has not been made.
