'Once in a lifetime opportunity': Newcastle sets date for major decision on new stadium

Newcastle will reportedly decide the future of their home stadium next year, which could mean a departure from St. James' Park.

The magpies has played at its iconic ground since it was founded as Newcastle United FC in 1892.

St. James' Park has undergone several renovations and the most recent improvements in 2002 saw the capacity increase to 52,350.

The Athletic reports that Newcastle are exploring the possibility of further renovating the stadium, and “many” members of the club and manager Eddie Howe are in favor of this.

However, the idea of ​​building a completely new piece of land that would allow them to relocate is being “seriously” considered.

Newcastle fans will be consulted before a final decision is made, a stage said to be planned for the early months of 2025.

Chief Operating Officer Brad Miller discussed the decision-making process during the week at a 'We Are United' fan event.

“It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” he said. “Do we invest and transform St. James' as we see it today where we are? Or do we take that bold step and think about moving?

“We want to make sure it's a very robust process. So regardless of the outcome, I want to stand in front of everyone throughout the process and say, 'This is why it's a logical decision, with long-term competitiveness in mind.'

“Because, as you will have heard many times, it is all about revenue and PSR (Premier League Profit and Sustainability Rules).

“We have to work hard to make sure we give as much money as possible to Paul (Mitchell, sporting director) and the football team to remain competitive on the field. As for next steps, we are approaching the end of the next stage, the information stage.

“There are a lot of risks and opportunities at St. James'. We have to take the time to dig into them and make sure we have the details in terms of the program, how long it will take and what it will do for us in terms of revenue.”

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The redevelopment, or “transformation,” of St. James Park would create an “amazing” look and “generate significantly more money.”

Moving nearby could offer “many more seats” and see the club “more than double in terms of revenue.”

Leazes Park has been reported as an option for Newcastle, but as it is a protected green space there may be difficulties with this.

Speaking further on the topic, Miller added: “We've also taken the opportunity to see what a new stadium will look like.

“It's not about comparing apples to apples, they are not equal. It's about comparing apples to pears.”

“The brilliant thing about St. James' is that it is in an iconic location, the atmosphere and competitive advantage it gives the team on the field, and it already has 52,000 seats.

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“But a new stadium doesn't have that and we would have to pay for all those seats again. A new stadium has the potential to earn a lot more, both on match days and off-match days, a bit like STACK (fan Zone).

“This gives us an indication that we can really contribute even more to the football club and football if we had a new stadium.”