Leeds council unveils development plans for land around Elland Road football stadium

Leeds City Council has launched a consultation on its plans for the future regeneration of land surrounding the Elland Road football stadium, with up to 2,500 new homes proposed. 

If agreed, the ‘Elland Road 2025 Informal Planning Statement’ will guide the future regeneration of around 30 acres of land surrounding the football stadium which is principally owned by the council. 

The draft plans include between 1,500 and 2,500 new homes as well as commercial and leisure opportunities including a community sports arena, hotel accommodation, workspaces and educational facilities linked to sport, health and wellbeing.

The proposals outline the relocation of the temporary park and ride currently at the site and how, subject to demand, one or more multi-storey car parks could be permitted.

The land has been allocated for development for a number of years, however the previous guidance for the land was adopted in 2007, so the current plans reflect recent changes and developments in the local area. This included Leeds United’s proposed stadium expansion, designed by KSS.

Deputy Leader and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, Councillor Jonathan Pryor, said: “Our proposals for Elland Road represent a once-in-a-generation opportunity of national significance to create a new neighbourhood, carefully integrated within South Leeds, which will deliver new homes, create jobs and provide major leisure opportunities, along with community and educational facilities that will benefit new and existing communities.

“With recent momentum such as the stadium expansion progressing, and many changes in Leeds since we first adopted planning guidance over 17 years ago, it is right that we take the opportunity to refresh the vision for this area. We strongly encourage residents, businesses and any interested party to participate in the consultation to help shape the updated proposals.”

Development of the site is expected to take up to 20 years from start on-site to completion. 

The council has published its proposals online as part of a consultation where residents, businesses and stakeholders can find out more information and provide feedback.

Following the consultation process, the council will vote on whether to adopt the plans. 

In April, Leeds United revealed images of its plans to revamp the Elland Road stadium from 38,000 capacity to 50,000. The ground has been at the site since 1919.