“Massive Elland Road Upgrade Revealed: Start Date, New Tram Routes & What’s Next for Leeds United
Elland Road Redevelopment Could Begin in September
The expansion of Elland Road may begin as early as September, with Leeds City councillors set to review detailed development plans at a meeting next Thursday.
The initial focus of the redevelopment will be the West Stand, followed by the North Stand in the next phase. Although the stadium’s capacity could eventually reach 56,500, current expectations suggest it will be closer to 53,000. Within this, hospitality seating is set to increase significantly, from 3,767 to 7,020.
Preliminary works—such as utility upgrades and partial demolition—are scheduled between September 2025 and February 2026. These enabling tasks must be completed before the main construction begins and will start with updating existing infrastructure before moving on to dismantling parts of the West Stand and adjacent areas.
Earlier this year, Leeds United chairman Paraag Marathe emphasized the goal of completing the project without reducing the stadium’s existing capacity. He stressed the importance of maintaining Elland Road’s renowned matchday atmosphere throughout the redevelopment.
In a significant move last month, Leeds City Council’s executive board unanimously approved the initial steps of the project. This included approving the sale of council-owned land around the stadium to the club—a key requirement before a planning application could be submitted. Leeds United has since released early renderings of the upgraded stadium.
The council has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Lowy Family Group, the selected development partner, outlining terms for a broader regeneration initiative. The long-term vision includes tram infrastructure and upgrades to local facilities.
Three potential tram routes for South Leeds have been proposed by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, with two running directly past Elland Road. These routes are still under consideration, and further public consultation is expected to begin in early 2026. Construction of these mass transit links is unlikely to start before 2028.
City planning documents to be reviewed on May 8 describe Elland Road as an “iconic” and “unprecedented” part of the Leeds skyline. The redevelopment aims to align the stadium with UEFA Category 4 standards, enhancing both hospitality and general fan experiences in a safer and more comfortable environment.
During construction, Fullerton Car Park will temporarily lose 200 of its 600 spaces. Post-development, 36 accessible parking spots north of the North Stand will be removed but offset by formalised spaces in a nearby Park and Ride facility.
The documents being presented are part of a pre-planning application, intended to address potential challenges before the formal planning process begins. A ‘hybrid’ planning application is expected, with full details for the West Stand and outline plans for the North Stand submitted together.
Over the past two months, club representatives have engaged with local residents about the proposals. The Supporters Advisory Group and Leeds City Council’s Disability Advisory Group have also been consulted.
In the coming weeks, newsletters will be distributed to residents, businesses, and stakeholders. A meeting with Leeds Civic Trust is also planned for later this month, along with two public consultation sessions.
The first consultation event will take place at The Holbeck Club on May 13, and the second at The Dragon Pub on May 19. Both sessions will run from 5pm to 8pm, with attendees limited to one session.
Fans and local residents can also share feedback via email at EllandRoadExpansionleedsunitedcomAdditionally, a public exhibition will be held at the Centenary Pavilion on May 22 and 23.
