Leeds Council Approves Elland Road Expansion Plans

Leeds City Council's executive board has unanimously approved key proposals for the redevelopment of Leeds United's Elland Road stadium, paving the way for an increase in capacity to up to 56,500 seats. The council agreed to begin legal agreements to sell surrounding land to Leeds United and to enter a Memorandum of Understanding with the club’s development partner, the Lowy Family Group, to explore broader regeneration of the 30-acre area. This redevelopment is seen as a major step forward for both the club—recently promoted to the Premier League—and the city, with the council highlighting that the project could revitalize South Leeds and bring substantial economic benefits. Plans include new transport links, improved amenities, and a focus on making Elland Road a year-round destination, with local residents promised a full public consultation. Council leaders from both the majority and opposition emphasized the broad citywide benefits, noting that the plan relies on land ownership and partnerships rather than taxpayer funding. The expanded stadium would place Elland Road among the top ten largest football venues in England, supporting the club's ambitions and the city's economic future.