Leazes Terrace - Preservation of City History, or Stadium Expansion?

Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) is a carefully managed investment portfolio to enable Saudi Arabia to diversify its economy revenues, in order to move away from oil. This project is called 'Vision 2030' and is driven by the global effects of climate change.
The PIF invest in a number of industries and companies that include shipping, renewable energies. entertainment, hospitality and tourism. In a drive to increase their populations interest in sport, they have had desires to purchase a Premier League club for many years. For this reason, they chose Newcastle United, based on the clubs potential for massive fan interest, both locally but potentially globally. A successful Newcastle United will generate huge revenue streams in Saudi Arabia amongst its population, as they invest in their own football infrastructure.
They have made it clear that they are not the owners of the club, but the custodians. The inference in this statement is that they are passing through. At some point in the future, 'ownership' of the club will change hands. To me this could conceivable mean 20 years or so.
Our new owners have made it clear since they purchased the club in October 2021 that we are a long term project whereby they hope we are challenging for the Premier League title in 5-10 years. Amanda Staveley has gone on record to state that their immediate concern is to build the foundations of the club through a state of the art training facility and our academy system.
She states - "To reach the top of the premier league, you don't just need great players, you need robust, strong foundations and we have to build them". This will take a few years to come to fruition.
Back in March 2022, Mehrdad Ghodoussi and Amanda Staveley stated in an interview with 'The Athletic' that they wouldn't be building a stadium somewhere else and would look to extend St James' Park to 60-65K when other larger objectives have been fulfilled. They will then work closely with Newcastle City Council to try and achieve this. It's my view that they will look at expansion around the middle of this decade.
It's from these fundamental pledges and economic positions that I draw my opinions on a gradual growth of the club and that they won't be 'throwing' money at the club to expedite perceived success as quickly as possible. I don't believe they will make astronomical financial decisions in regards facilitating stadium expansion. That means I don't believe they will spend potentially billions on attempting to relocate Leazes Terrace (for example), in order to increase our capacity by around 15 - 20K seats. It makes no economic sense to their wider objectives under Vision 2030. Neither do I believe that they will seek to compromise the history of our city, for stadium extension objectives.
I attempt in my videos to be balanced and see these complex circumstances from different positions that consider, planning, development, history, heritage, conservation and politics.
I enjoy well thought out and balanced views and I'm always looking to learn new things. My opinions are my own.
In this video I take a closer look at Leazes Terrace which is the reason St James' Park has been unable to be expanded on its East side.
I explain the listed buildings meaning and we take an inside look at the building and what it means to Newcastle. We then explore whether it can be demolished.
This video should be seen in conjunction with the following two videos, that take a look at moving the pitch in one and the reason the club won't build on the Arena land.
• Utilita Arena | Newcas...
• Shocking Developments ...

[@TynesideLife]

Thank you for watching my video and I appreciate any engagement with it, especially your comments. I now often get hundreds of messages for each video I release and unfortunately, I'm unable to respond to them all. As such, I have set up a Membership scheme to my channel, whereby you can obtain priority status, including responses to messages. Memberships start from ONLY £2.99pm! If you'd like to become a member of my channel, just click on the JOIN button on my channel homepage from a computer. Thank you.

[@george150799]

Really informative video well done, your correct when it comes to stadium development, Everton's new ground caused Liverpool north docks to lose world heritage status, many people in the city were mortified at that, but the area were EFC are building is derelict, nobody, not even scousers went there, also, 10 years ago EFC put planning request for a new stadium in Knowsley, a deprived area of Merseyside, this was knocked back by the government because locals didn't want it, so wider economic reasons don't always get a plan through, but Leazes terrace looks an amazing set of buildings and feels intrinsic to Newcastle's identity

[@TynesideLife]

Great message George and a balanced understanding thank you 👍🏻

[@theblackbirdshedbewdley2333]

I like the 'moving the pitch north west' plans. Plus we could have a removable pitch like Real Madrid now has, because it would be higher. If we use mirrors on the outside of the terrace side, that would help with the light getting to the buildings. Another great video.

[@taherajenz]

Brilliant presentation, simple no fancy words but yet very informative 👍🏽 I really hope NUFC fans are open to the idea of other ideas in regards to the stadium and training facilities and really get behind the owners in the plans to build NUFC to an elite and sustainable level.

[@taherajenz]

My personal view is if you want to be up there challenging the elite clubs like your LFC, Man City, Barcelona, Real Madrid etc than you not only need to invest in players but to accommodate that you also need to invest in a state of the the art football stadium and training facilities that will generate the attention not only locally but also globally and that is what PIF is all about, they are savvy business people who are forward thinkers and not those who like to get stuck into old times as much as they respect and love the culture and traditions of the club but ultimately their passion is to build NUFC into an elite club which their fans can be proud of. Sometime tough decisions need to be made in the interest of the club otherwise best to go back to Mike Cashley who never gave a damn for the club unlike PIF who in an Arab TV said they don’t see themselves as owners of the club but rather custodians of it. Im British Arab who travels back and forth to KSA and the Middle East on a regular basis for family and business reasons and NUFC is regularly talked about and how exciting the project is not only for the club but also to the city of Newcastle, in terms of new jobs and infrastructure. UAE and Man City owners even admit they can’t compete with the financial powers of PIF but if they can do what they have done with Man City who’s fanbase is no where on the same level as NU fan base and that’s no disrespect to city fans but that’s just the truth than can you imagine what PIF can do with NUFC.

[@grahambell9831]

Wise words Eddy. A complex subject, broken down into simple explanations of the whys and wherefores. Keep SJP where it is and let all concerned parties work together in a positive way, to bring about a sensible working expansion of SJP. Nice one Eddy, have a good weekend ahead 👍

[@TynesideLife]

I love it when I get well considered and balanced messages Graeme. There all great fully received🙏

[@RYGTR]

Brilliant video as always, great research and details, Thank you, keep it up 👍

[@cdansmith9753]

The club should not be allowed to touch Leazes Terrace

[@TynesideLife]

I hope they don’t

[@leeedwards8826]

Really, really, really impressive video. It answers all the questions whilst also providing a history tour of surrounding buildings. I was also impressed with your other videos where you approached match day opposition fans for interviews. 50k subs will be with you before long.

[@TynesideLife]

Thank you 🙏

[@alanwindham3121]

Another interesting and well presented video. I think we are falling into the trap that we are still the old NUFC. PIF are huge investors and want to see us become a global brand. I am sure that their influence is huge and that if they want to do something to increase our global presence they will ensure it happens. They have promised to explore all avenues to increase SJP capacity but will build another stadium if this cannot be achieved. If the city council do not work with the club, I am sure there are other local authorities who will be glad to. We are no longer a provincial city club but a multi million pound business. Income, profits and good publicity are now the way forward. Establishing a global fan base is the priority. Hopefully we can all benefit from this and fans can enjoy the progress.

[@TynesideLife]

🤛🏻

[@johne1892]

Great video Eddie, I can talk to my mates at the weekend and pretend I know what I am talking about now......seriously though, it's a hugely complex task either to try to expand for the 'sake' of 5-10,000 seats. Keep up the great videos.

[@TynesideLife]

Cheers John 🤛🏻

[@tome2648]

As an honorary Geordie, I love watching your videos and learning more about the city 👏🏼😊

[@TynesideLife]

🤛🏻

[@Murhamdilah]

I used to live in no 41 Leazes Terrace as a phd student back in 2014-2017. Great view facing the tennis court.

[@daveyeddie8176]

Great stuff Eddie, going the extra mile there, I just hope there is a solution that can be agreed upon, the demolishing of the west side of Leazes terrace imo won't get the go ahead, and even though they are literally now just halls of residence it's one of the top landmarks of our city, if it did get the nod to be demolished then on a selfish front that's Ok by me, can't see it though, I was a bit shocked when I heard you first talk about the demolition, so as you say for the foreseeable future it stays as it is, well researched piece that Eddie, adding, Thomas Oliver was much underrated for the work he done in the city. And as you said grade 2 listed Eldon Square was demolished for a shopping centre, so "part of" Leazes terrace being demolished may not be a beyond comprehension, and it would benefit the city imo, although as i stated earlier many folk would have their backs up, very interesting though, and the permanent residents will be mostly full of hell. A long way to go on this one I feel.

[@TynesideLife]

Great balanced message Davey. Of course I’m not proposing we demolish it. I’m just adding facts to the discussion and presenting what would happen 👍🏻

[@keveb04]

Yet another fantastic video, Thank you for your time to put this together.

[@TynesideLife]

🤛🏻

[@Framework_Studio]

Crazy question: can it be dismantled brick for brick & rebuild over the land where the tennis courts are? Expensive project but it may solve the problem.

[@stevejarman925]

That was my thoughts as well. Beamish manage it...

[@TynesideLife]

Sorry to pour water on this but it’s a none starter

[@spencerleeprofile]

Exactly what I was thinking

[@TynesideLife]

@@parallaxview6770 baring in mind it’s immense size, the cost would be staggering, even in the highly unlikely circumstances the Secretary of State approved it. Then if you look at the actual map, it wouldn’t fit. All for an extra 15-20k seats in a stadium, which would largely need to rebuilt to accommodate that many extra fans. The total cost of the whole project would run into billions. The PIF is an investment fund with a wide ranging portfolio in renewable energies, transport, tourism, hospitality (to name a few), in order to diversify its economic revenue streams in KSA, it’s not a bottomless pit of money for one football club. All added together, the idea is unlikely in the absolute extreme, which is why I affirmed that it’s a none starter. I’d encourage anyone to go to my stadium Playlist and watch the video about why Saudi Arabia bought a premium league club. It’s not about ‘us’ and although we will experience some huge benefits in club investment and infrastructure, we need to understand we’re a carefully managed investment. I hope that explains why 👍🏻

[@Framework_Studio]

@@TynesideLife Hi Eddie, with regards to your comments above. I have just done a quick photoshop work at the listed building will fit with ease. Furthermore there is ample room to also relocate the tennis courts. I will email you the image so you can see for yourself. Plus I also done some research on the actual costings with reference to previous projects which have been moved brick for brick and the cost will come in somewhere in the region of 150 million - considering we have just spent virtual the same on players, I think IMO adding that extra additional cost onto the final stadium build costs will be a drop in the pond considering the cost that other teams have paid refurbing their stadium or building new stadiums from scratch. Wembley and White Hart Lane springs to mind.

[@pauljackson9553]

Surely the building does not need to be removed but the road yes? And build the new stand with a mostly glass fascia to allow light to pass. There’s enough room there to improve that stand by 10000 and then improve the Gallowgate substantially to fit in with the Milburn stand.

[@TynesideLife]

If you watch the three videos I’ve done on this now with the supporting evidence and the conversations I’ve had with the experts, you’ll have a completely different understanding and view Paul 👍🏻

[@7kingkev]

Interesting . Thanks Eddie 👍

[@trashpanda5805]

Stunning terrace. Attractive to more than just football fans

[@seanroberthanrahan9263]

Hi Eddie, ive only recently come across your videos and enjoy watching them immensley, especially the football related ones, sincerely hope Newcastle United stay at St James's park rather than seek pastures new. Its an iconic stadium that produces atmospheres many a lego built one could only dream of 👏, would love to be up there to witness it for the opening game of the season against my beloved Nottingham Forest. Good luck for the upcoming season, howay the lads 😉

[@TynesideLife]

That’s appreciated Sean 🙏

[@userclassified1471]

Your videos are great. Really enjoyable watch. Could we have a video where you ask the hypothetical question 'ok, we've explored everything and there's nothing that can be done, we need a new stadium, so where could it be? And what could it be?' Where in newcastle? Maybe at the beach? Also, 70,000, 90,000, a roof? An huge tv screen? Transport to the new venue? Etc? Yes, its hypothetical, but i feel its something yet ti be explored in anyone's video yet

[@TynesideLife]

I’ve covered it a couple of times bud. I haven’t been able to identify anywhere as yet

[@bobatwell7505]

No way they will demolish Leazes Terrace Eddy . Surely they can design a new East Stand which doesn't effect Leases Terrace light issues . Great video by the way .

[@TynesideLife]

Hopefully 🤛🏻

[@RazagalArtanis]

Great video as usual.

[@TynesideLife]

That’s appreciated bud and thank you again for your support 👍🏻

[@kevingallagher4673]

In this day and age you can move pitches etc .. so why not make stands also fold away or be raised to a height on game day that all parties agree too ... just an idea but worth looking at

[@TynesideLife]

I cover these type of flat pack stadiums in the video I recommend in this vid.

[@brianoliver2464]

My great great grandfather Thomas Oliver was the architect of Leazes Terrace. I along with the rest of my family wouldn't like to see any demolition of these buildings.

[@TynesideLife]

Oh wow! Thanks for getting in touch Brian! I agree with you and I don’t want to see our history destroyed.

[@gazzag72]

Great informative video Eddie mate. Whichever way we go the future is very exciting ⚫️⚪️⚫️⚪️👍

[@TynesideLife]

🤛🏻

[@davetrueman6354]

There's a lot of focus on Leazes Terrace as the limiting factor on any expansion of the East Stand. However are there any such restrictions or issues in place for the buildings on St James St that back onto the East Stand at the Gallowgate corner which are much closer?

[@TynesideLife]

There’s St James Terrace Dave which I’m covering in a different video 👍🏻

[@davetrueman6354]

@@TynesideLifeI look forward to seeing that. Great stuff Eddie 👍

[@GBDT]

Yes, part of the street which has a back lane to the East Stand is also listed.

[@TheMrJwm]

I'd be happy if they built a second SJP in Wolverhampton so I could watch more live games. Doesn't have to be big, one seat for me. That'll do

[@Rich9106]

Thanks for the great video, Eddie. Really enjoying watching your channel and hearing the ping when you post a new video! Even as a massive fan, I would not like to see Leazes Terrace demolished. Would prefer the club looked to make an offer that the company who bought the land behind Gallowgate couldn’t refuse and expand that end to the same level as the Milburn stand. Yes the stadium would be low on one side, but at least the ground would be larger and have a better degree of symmetry. Keep up all your great work sir 🙌

[@TynesideLife]

Cheers Rich 👍🏻

[@keithrichardsom1898]

Another fantastic video Eddie,in my opinion and it's only an opinion with regarding the expansion could Nufc not go down in respect to the pitch I believe Barcelona built downward and it's worked I know there is a graveyard underneath the Nufc pitch which might cause issues but this could be an idea to expand

[@TynesideLife]

That’s part of the idea I cover in my previous video to this Keith. Well worth a watch. I think its an urban myth about a graveyard underneath though

[@frankdux5693]

Surely there's some clever way though of building stands on top of the east stand and gallowgate without encroachment on the buildings etc.

[@TynesideLife]

Nope 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@jamiefender6909]

Another excellent video I reckon there’s an architect out there who can design a ‘glass like’ structure in what would be a top tier

[@TynesideLife]

There’ll still be seats in the top tier obstructing the light Jamie? Light isn’t the only factor however as I discuss in the video

[@userclassified1471]

Here's one more idea - temporarilly expand st james. How? Close the roads and cantileaver over leazes terrace just for match days. They do this at olympics to temporarilly increase capacity. Then when match is over, you dismantle and store away somewhere?

[@TynesideLife]

They don’t cantilever over historic buildings bud

[@Pbchelt]

It would take weeks if not months to build a temporary stand of that size and you still wouldn't get permission.

[@dillcarver7731]

Forget St James Park. You should ground-share with the Stadium of Light 😊

[@TynesideLife]

😂

[@clarky_697]

Great video Eddie, sound was a bit dodgy in the middle for a short while though. Going to be there for the Bilbao game and looking forward to it 👍🖤🤍

[@TynesideLife]

Cheers Clarky 🤛🏻

[@clarky_697]

@@TynesideLife always very informative and delivered very well pal 👌

[@charliemckeever3192]

Another very very in-depth video eddy 👍👍.. if they do go a head and remove the grade 1n building considered it's a grade 1n and a nice bit of architecture from 1n side atleast it would be good to get it rebuilt at beamish rather than loose it 🤔🤔🤔

[@TynesideLife]

Never happen in a million years Charlie

[@charliemckeever3192]

@@TynesideLife what would neva happened eddy put the main side of the leazes at beamish or rebuilding a new 8000+ stadium somewhere else in the Newcastle area.. 🤔

[@TynesideLife]

@@charliemckeever3192 neither bud. Have you watched my arena video?

[@charliemckeever3192]

@@TynesideLife oooh I think so eddy not sure TBH.. when did you post it 🤔🤔

[@TynesideLife]

@@charliemckeever3192 a few days ago. I mention it in this video and I’ve linked it in the description. There’s far too much nonsense being discussed on Twitter etc.

[@simonbrown7455]

Lsts say the stadium is "completed", would it be eligible for international matches ?

[@TynesideLife]

Yep it should be used for 2028 already 👍🏻

[@davesmart653]

thanks for the home work

[@TynesideLife]

🤛🏻

[@haddawayman4429]

Without a doubt a friends of Leazes terrace group would spring up and it would drag out the process, which is what happened with Sir John Halls Leazes Park Plan. I would also be really surprised if Historic England would let it pass regardless of the economic case.

[@TynesideLife]

I think you need to watch my previous video bud. I interview the Chair of the Friends of Leazes Group. I did suggest in the video to watch my other two 😅

[@tylermcgill6616]

@@TynesideLife I did see that one. However, I think a much wider group would form in opposition and they would likely have a lot of support from non football people like they did last time.

[@T3RRAFORM]

If you can you should try recording your audio at a lower level so it doesn’t clip and distort. You can the boost the audio using the free audio editing software “Audacity”. It has some great plug ins that can compress you audio when you’re interviewing people so it all comes out at the same level. I know you’re doing it all yourself and your videos are great. It’s just you audio letting them down a bit. Hope you take this the way it’s intended just a bit of constructive criticism.

[@TynesideLife]

I need some help with my audio but if I’m honest bud, you’re speaking in a foreign language and I don’t understand what you’ve just told me 😬

[@shaunbrennan5882]

One of my earliest memories is standing in the Gallowgate in the 70s. Would love to see the expansion and future use of St James park. But realistically that's not going to happen. To increase match day revenue we need a bigger stadium. The extra 10k or so we get through expansion is just not enough long term. The recent demand for season tickets speaks volumes.

[@TynesideLife]

I think you need to watch my other two videos Shaun. You may have a different perspective 👍🏻

[@shaunbrennan5882]

@@TynesideLife I've watched all your posts Eddie. Thoroughly enjoy them. I'd really love them to stay at SJP but realistically I just can't see it. All the work that the old girl needs for a 10k increase . Will that be enough in the long term ? I don't know what's going to happen tbh.

[@TynesideLife]

@@shaunbrennan5882 I think we have to bare in mind too is that when they hike the prices up, the season ticket que will shorten

[@shaunbrennan5882]

@@TynesideLife agreed Eddie. Plus the club needs maintain a level of success to help sell those season tickets in the first place.

[@NUFC-ge4ui]

Got to live in the now not the past expanding SJP by any means possible will have a greater impact on the city of Newcastle as a whole so demolishing Leazes Terrace would be a move that I think the council will agree to despite the buildings been listed buildings.

[@TynesideLife]

If we don’t preserve our history, we don’t really love our Newcastle. We just love our football team above all else. There’s a balance to be had 👍🏻

[@IanEckert1977]

Your videos are Classic...

[@TynesideLife]

Glad you like them Ian snd thanks for supporting my channel 🤛🏻

[@IanEckert1977]

No problem my Hard-Rocking-Amigo... - Jack Black Tribute

[@mh4lly941]

Could it not be built higher and it all be built with glass or is that still obstructing natural light?

[@TynesideLife]

Watch the other two videos that I mention in this video so you will have a better understanding of the whole picture 👍🏻

[@Andy-kg9ud]

Would it not be possible to take the terrace apart and rebuild it in another part of the city?

[@TynesideLife]

Please see my video description which articulates my view Andy 👍🏻

[@peterarmstrong3298]

Moving into Leazes Park would be perfect but where would we play in the meantime? Spurs had Wembley but theres nothing like that up here. It's a massive headache and I'm pleased I'm not tasked with sorting it out! A new stadium would enable us to carry on playing at SJP until its completed but where could it be built? Great video thanks Eddie, I appreciate the hard work you put in.

[@ld6433]

If you mean building a new stadium in leazes park.. then surely we could just use st James park till it was finished? Then knock it down and made into green area

[@jinkertsun]

Might be a few objections to stuff being built on Leazes though. More than a few I guess especially as it’s in a conservation area.

[@ld6433]

@@jinkertsun yeah.. will probably never happen.. would be good if we could just make the old stadium all greenery etc .. sort of trading places really lol

[@JD-lp5rw]

Not leazes park, it's a beautiful park, and the only one in the city centre. Either the town moor or stay where we are. Oh if only the helix district was 10 years postponed.

[@GBDT]

@@jinkertsun It has already been tried by the club about 20 years ago. Lots of objections resulted in it not happening.

[@philb9846]

Someone has commented on this previously and had thought of this myself. As there does seem to be a bit of room between the East Stand and the houses in Leazes Terrace still, if the biggest problem is the need for light, does the technology exist to rebuild the East Stand but incorporate some reflective structures that will increase the light that gets into the terrace? It wouldn't matter how high the stand was if this were feasible. Might be totally stupid as no facility like this has ever been developed but just a query. I'd assume this would have already been investigated so maybe impossible to incorporate into a new East Stand.

[@TynesideLife]

The problem isn’t just the light Phil. The video sets out some significant factors surrounding this issue. For a further insight into my views on this, check out the video description 👍🏻

[@philb9846]

@@TynesideLife thanks very much. Just found your videos and very impressed. Take care

[@marksmith334]

One fact everyone misses is that the age of the average season ticket holder is nearly 60, so natural wastage will soon produce enough spare seats. There is no point in building a bigger stadium, it makes no financial sense.

[@TynesideLife]

I’d dispute that assertion Mark. Where did you get that information from?

[@Henry-jp3mc]

Extend by sloping the sides like the yorkshire pudding design abroad. It would be the most distinctive and unique stadium in the league.

[@TynesideLife]

👍🏻

[@WhiteHartDane]

Even from an outsider's point of view it would be a shame to see those houses gone. They're part of what makes St. James Park and its surroundings a little different to other grounds.

[@TynesideLife]

It’s also a crucial part of Newcastle’s history. I’d hate to seen them go

[@aalan4296]

@@TynesideLife I've seen examples of buildings being moved whereby the excavate under the foundations and slide in a concrete/steel tray and move them. Could they do that ? or maybe build upwards and place a second tier immediately above the lower tier with a glass screen to let light through ? I'm not a Newcastle fan but St James Park is one of the best looking stadiums in the country with a great history.

[@TynesideLife]

@@aalan4296 hi, please see my video description where I articulate my full view on this. Many thanks 👍🏻

[@michaellionart4841]

Morning Chief. Fascinating as always, specially the history bits you do. Thank You. As per your previous, moving NW appears to be the future. Thank You 🙏

[@TynesideLife]

🙏

[@joemclaughlan6287]

I reckon we'll see the pitch move. As expensive and lengthy that would be, it's our only real option other than moving out of the city with a new ground.

[@TynesideLife]

👍🏻

[@JD-lp5rw]

Rotation achieves nothing, if you look at it all does is add another tier onto the leazes and Millburn, which we could do already. But those seats would be miles away, and itd make our stadium look even stranger

[@joemclaughlan6287]

@@JD-lp5rw didn't say rotation mate - I meant the drawings where they move the pitch up a bit towards the Leazes corner to create more space for East Stand and Gallowgate to rebuild.

[@brucewayne8172]

Other clubs work with the councils to expand the grounds look what Liverpool have and are doing to their ground’ I don’t get that impression with Newcastle city council

[@TynesideLife]

You’ll need to expand on that Bruce to explain the complications discussed in this video bud

[@brucewayne8172]

@@TynesideLife I just think that Newcastle city council would put obstacles in the way with any expansion.. the buildings that getting build around the ground would that happen to any other ground ?

[@TynesideLife]

@@brucewayne8172 I’m not sure where you’ve developed your opinion Bruce? It’s not something I recognise during my research and I’m not aware of any examples? St James’ Park is unique due to it being in the city centre and surrounded not only by a conservation area but listed buildings and a listed park. The Liverpool example is not a like for like that I can see

[@paulmcnicholas3846]

Considering Leazes terrace is basically a historic shell and that the internals no longer resemble the original, could that side of the building be actually incorporated into the stadium? It would be expensive I'm sure but St James Park would definitely be unique.

[@TynesideLife]

You’d have to run the environmental consequences of that through with me Paul as it seems possible from an engineering perspective but simply insurmountable in every other aspect and massively over simplistic

[@paulmcnicholas3846]

@@TynesideLife I'm purely thinking about it from an engineering perspective and considering the kind of projects the Saudis usually take on, this would definitely be achievable, though I'm not too sure how much consideration is taken for the environmental impact of such projects in Saudi.

[@TynesideLife]

@@paulmcnicholas3846 I’ll cut it short for you Paul. It ain’t going to happen

[@MsButterflygirl101]

I hope not, I used to live on St Thomas's Street which is round the corner. Beautiful houses.

[@TynesideLife]

I agree ☝️

[@hayz1313]

Interesting video, great content. I think it would be extremely naive not to factor in both the ridiculous financial and political/diplomatic power that our owners have & remember exactly who they are. Be in no doubt that when they decide one way or another which action they'll take, they'll ensure that the processes get pushed through much more quickly than is normally possible. I think (& hope) we'll see a full scale expansion of St James park in the not too distant future.

[@TynesideLife]

Great message Steven 🤛🏻

[@stevehenke678]

Shit hot video this Eddy lad, great stuff. Cheers. 👍

[@TynesideLife]

🙏

[@paulpenfold2352]

I missed the bit where you explain how there are circumstances where grade 1 listed buildings have been demolished. Re-purposing such buildings is not demolishing them.

[@TynesideLife]

You must have missed it Paul. Grade 1 listed buildings can be demolished if they’re in such a poor state of repair, it’s not cost effective to repair them, if they’re a danger to the public, or if there can be shown to be a wider economic benefit for the area. All of these are rare and in exceptional circumstances, but in every respect, permission is given by the Secretary of State on advice from Historic England 👍🏻

[@cannyscott]

Hopefully plans are being processed to do something to meet this problem. Realistically we need a new stadium as much as I love our cathedral

[@TynesideLife]

Hi Scott, I still believe we can get a 70-80k stadium in our current location by moving it NW by about 20m. They won’t look at a new stadium idea until everything is exhausted. It’s their pledge. Either way, this will take years

[@cannyscott]

@@TynesideLife if we can do that it would be amazing. I dont want to move but we are desperate for more seats. Less then an hour and tickets for the man City game have practically sold out. Its just took me an hour to secure my ticket

[@TynesideLife]

@@cannyscott wow! Crazy times Scott 😱

[@graemejohnson2388]

If it’s just light for the students in leazers that’s stopping the build just come to a agreement with the university. Money talks. I bet some other students are in digs that have worse natural light.

[@TynesideLife]

It’s not just the light. I’d encourage you to watch the video to gain a fuller understanding Graeme 👍🏻

[@peteylang3401]

We need a bigger stadium, that much is a given with the number of applicants on the waiting list. However knocking down historic buildings is not what I would like to see happen. As much as it pains me to say it, I think long-term we need to move. I'd be looking at the land around the soon-to-be old Newcastle arena. It will be an impressive stadium on an elevated piece of land overlooking the river Tyne. It may not be St James but it will be seen from all across Gateshead and anyone travelling via the A1.

[@TynesideLife]

Could I encourage you to watch the video I did about the arena site before I did this video. It’s negligibly a none starter Petey.

[@brunog576]

We need to find away this stadium can’t be moved it’s sits so perfect in the city

[@carl.carl.8783]

Hong Kong airport and Palm Island were built on man made bases in the sea, is it possible to do a similar thing with a ground on the Tyne.

[@TynesideLife]

I lived in Hong Kong for three years. We don’t have the land

[@carl.carl.8783]

@@TynesideLife just a thought

[@kendom33]

I lived in leazes terrace for some years (just moved out). I agree that if it was private dwellings it would be much better. However the university owned probably 2/3 of the buildings and now they are owned by a consortium. I dont think knocking it down would be good for Newcastle

[@buster9168]

It's only the brickwork that is listed. It can be taken down brick by brick and moved to another site. It would not be lost just relocated. Costs a fortune though.

[@martinwoodworth3715]

@@buster9168 This sounds the best answer. I don't think money is the problem.

[@TynesideLife]

I agree and it will never be moved to another location.

[@kendom33]

@@buster9168 however that loses the history of the park and the area. You're right though. Would cost probably billions at today's crazy prices

[@christiphermeadows5348]

There's nothing that can be done to expand the east stand....the old buildings that stand opposite will be staying where they are..beacause they've listed etc....maybe heighten up the gallowgate to match the leazes end opposite to boost capacity slightly....but other than that....I'm afraid it's gonna have to be a move to another brand new stadium elsewhere....it'll be a wrench but other clubs have done it through the years and those fans accepted it and live with it..looka West ham....you don't see them twisting on now....n they idolised Upton park....but like a say......thems the only options I reckon..cheers eddy...👍...keep them good vids coming...your channels well established now fella...👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏

[@TynesideLife]

Cheers Chris 👍🏻

[@christiphermeadows5348]

@@TynesideLife nee probs eddy..👍

[@TynesideLife]

@@christiphermeadows5348 have you watched my stadium expansion video Chris? There is some updated news that will effect any expansion ideas of the Gallowgate

[@christiphermeadows5348]

@@TynesideLife I'll tune in eddy cheers...

[@jeffdbaker71]

Which one has been there longer? Can they move this Leazes Terrace? They move buildings all the time.

[@TynesideLife]

Think you need to watch the video Jeff 👍🏻

[@geordieal]

How about we take the idea of moving the stadium north west a little further… buy up the land on the west side of Barrack road where the Magpie used to be and is now student accommodation. Extend St. James over Barrack road, creating a tunnel like situation similar to Monaco Grand Prix track. Moving the stadium that much west would free up loads of space on the east side to expand. And then cantilever the Gallowgate end over Strawberry place.

[@TynesideLife]

👍🏻

[@andysheppard8346]

Great story. Big conundrum. Leazes tce not to be demolished. But newcastle city council should be open to the idea of re - building the stadia over barrackrd and strawberry Place with pitch twisted NW. Development behind the gallowgate should be re-negotiated. Gonna cost money. Developers will want double money back

[@TynesideLife]

👍🏻

[@firestarter1888]

Morning Ed!

[@TynesideLife]

Morning 👍🏻

[@gordy3714]

What's the maximum the east stand could provide in terms of extra capacity.

[@TynesideLife]

How long is a piece of string bud 😅

[@gordy3714]

@@TynesideLife That's for future videos eddy, the maximum each stand can be developed (if applicable) you have to be looking 75-80,000 to develop St James, and that is the demand currently, what happens when the club gets into the champions league, a extra 10,000 at 62,000 isn't it going to cut it, the owners have a real dilemma.

[@TynesideLife]

@@gordy3714 what happens if the club are mid table in 4 years time… Lots of what ifs and several years to pass before we can look at the details. Would love to eventually have an 80k st James Park eventually 👍🏻

[@gordy3714]

@@TynesideLife They could fill 80,000 now in mid table, that will simply not happen for 2 reasons, 1st the amount of money they will spend, PiF will not settle for second best and 2nd,Its extremely doubtful Pep or Klopp will be still managing in the premier league, at that point Newcastle will be one of the 1st ports of call for the best managers in world football. 👍

[@TynesideLife]

@@gordy3714 they could fill it now because of hope, excitement and expectation. If we’re mid table in 4 years time there’ll be a different narrative. All we know is, no decisions or plans will be made about expansion for a few years yet until training facilities are built in new location and we’re (hopefully) established in the top 4 region 👍🏻 Thanks for your comments bud 👍🏻

[@GBDT]

The discussion is about the Leazes Terrace listed buildings but everyone seems to have forgotten about the Listed Buildings even close to the East stand. The buildings behind Eddie in the video are also listed and also the buildings behind that block on St James Street are also listed. I am totally against any demolition of Leazes Terrace. The fact that part of the building is for student accommodation has no bearing on it. Those who mention Old Eldon Square need to know that they were not in a sound condition and there was no money coming in to refurbish them.

[@TynesideLife]

Old Eldon Square buildings were Grade 2 listed too. 👍🏻

[@GBDT]

@@TynesideLife But not in so good condition 🙂

[@markmartin9745]

Brilliant podcast again Eddie - the grade 2 listed Leazes Park directly behind the Leazes stand I’d where the new stadium will be, would love to see a podcast about that possibility ?

[@TynesideLife]

I cover that in one of the videos I mention Mark 👍🏻

[@user-hs3dg8jy3t]

I think we should prioritise the historical buildings around St James, there was enough historical buildings criminally destroyed in the 60s!

[@the15minutegamer]

All good points as always another awesome video 😊😊😊 I mean outside its impressive but its just a facade nothing else is impressive or important about it. I have a awful feeling in 10 years we will be sitting here discussing the same things as this isn't sorting self out anytime soon.

[@pennycatterick5148]

I proudly say that I'm a forth generation Geordie NUFC child, it never seems enough to say fan or supporter. Whilst I recognise that people can be Geordies and not NUFC supporters,...but I've never met anyone like that. For me, SJP is the center of the Geordie community, that and Wallsend shipyard. It seems to me that community and its beating heart should be the priority in any decision about the future of the Cathedral. I love the facade of Leazes terrace and want to see it preserved, but not at the cost of community. So,....as wild as it seems, relocate the facade to another site in Newcastle, where it can be seen and appreciated. PennyXxx

[@TynesideLife]

Of course, in the interests of balance Penny, there are many many Geordies who see our history and heritage as the centre of our community. Our new stadium as we look at it is around 20 years old

[@pennycatterick5148]

@@TynesideLife Eddie,......let me share a quote from Lao Tzu (1200BCE), dont think he was a Geordie, that its the space between the walls that make a house, not the walls. Community happens in the space. When people outside of Newcastle talk of Geordie culture, I believe they talk of warmth and friendship, rather than facades. I know you are trying to be balanced in your comments, but in you I see a warm, compassionate Geordie soul. PennyXxx

[@chrisdawson6156]

Hi penny you alright

[@greensidemags]

I wouldn't be waiting 5-6 years just to get the inevitable knockback. The owners of the arena site could double their money just by selling that land to nufc & no doubt the council would approve that deal as it would keep all parties happy

[@TynesideLife]

I’d encourage you to watch that video bud. It ain’t going to happen

[@Plymonk666]

I think our attackers that we already had are goi g to be great this season and blow everyone’s minds as to how great they are now they have the time, energy & a coach that will let them play to their best because they won’t have to do everything and will be fit enough to play to the always there potentional; you watch! And with the old physio retired & a top level medical team injuries will become a lot lot less than ever, you watch; Wilson will miss two games by injury this season at the most

[@TynesideLife]

👍🏻

[@joinmeonthedarkside2]

All that to keep the front of it .. it seems. The financial benefit and the employment it will bring for decades must outweigh . But 5 years can we really wait that long. The gallowgate surely can be extended over strawberry Place slightly ? The debate rolls on eh

[@TynesideLife]

I discuss the new development plans for strawberry place in my previous video bud. It looks like the land has gone

[@callum9679]

I can't see why they can't move it like they did with Beamish buildings

[@TynesideLife]

Please see my video description which articulates the PIF role and my view on your idea 👍🏻

[@philipshort7491]

look at beamish museum, they have no problems dismantling old buildings and rebuilding them at beamish. there are loads of locations around the city with much better views for the houses, the newcastle owners would soon get their money back for the relocation of the buildings with the much larger ground capacity and all the other tom dick and harry's out there wanting to hold events at the much bigger s j p .

[@TynesideLife]

It’ll never happen Phillip. If you’ve watched the video you’ll understand without being an expert that this is something that’s is impossible

[@Flukey_1970]

Ahhhh you have just answered the question i have been thinking as to why cant they build a second tier on the other half of the stadium. Ive watched the other videos so yeah i see the arguments about a new stand however if they can do it to the iconic Wembley stadium then maybe we just need to bite the bullet and build a new stadium at some point. Great informative video as ususal

[@renngretsch]

I can remember kipping in Leazes Terrace and going to student parties there over thirty years ago before the Hall family took over NUFC. If the Halls couldn't get any joy out of government when trying to sort out the east side of the ground, then I don't think the new owners will either. John Hall even threatened to take the club over to Gateshead and it didn't work. Is the land from the Gateshead plan still there? All I can remember is the club saying it would have been closer to the Bigg Market than St. James is.

[@TynesideLife]

There was never a genuine threat to move to Gateshead. They looked at Newburn Haugh and Castle Leazes

[@renngretsch]

@@TynesideLife Clearly it wasn't a genuine threat at time, or the club would have moved. I knew a person ITK with the dealings between the club and Newcastle politicians at that time, and what I was hearing was that the politicians didn't care if NUFC moved across the river. It may or may not have just been a pokerfaced bluff on their part. I can remember computer plans for the stadium on a Gateshead site using wireframe graphics being shown on the local TV news, so someone in the club was investing some effort into it even it the idea was then binned.

[@jsmithmultimediatech]

Just a general reason as to why I love this club haha, the humour they had before all this video phone stuff (even camera phones really, why they'd get away with murder back then) like according to Steve Howey. There's soo many hilarious stories of them having one heck of a good laugh, like won't got into too much detail as that'd be a very long post but they were given a faith healer once and when Gazza used to play for them was during that time lol, essentially as a result of them taking the piss out of her work lol, got a right telling off by the gaffer I think it was. Derek Wright the head physio who's more recently retired bless him and Steve were called into the gaffers office, Howey wearing an emu costume for the clubs Christmas party and Derek in some kind of pink leotard and a tutu haha (Derek's a pretty big lad as well, adds to the hilarity of imagining it).

[@TynesideLife]

Brilliant stories Jeremy! Those were the days! Are you in touch with any of these?

[@jsmithmultimediatech]

@@TynesideLife Ah no sadly never met them, well have once Peter Beardsley but was very brief, actually was the first time I ever saw them play away at Leeds. When my sister was seeing the essentially now one of the son's of the financial director of InTechnology (was Planet ISP back then). When Ben's father was a director for Leeds Utd, after the game having a few drinks (wasn't able to drink alcohol as it was a few years before I got to 18). My cousin Andy whos now a Deputy head in a school in Whitley Bay, worked in Gosforth Park hotel for a very long while before going to University and was a waiter in their restaurant when he'd come back. He's got a few framed photos of when they've been in there, like is one of him and Alan and Derek. Aye most of its well a good mix of the two, from the kind of preview Steve Howey did on Look North before the 98 cup final, like the narrator saying I think it was we all know about the club but what do the players think of each other, some of it was hilarious. Then more recently Howey did a podcast and most of it had me in stitches. Sorry for the hugely long post but yeah, like one of the things I remember from being reminded in the podcast most dont know Terry Mac's apparently got a bit of a lisp in the recent podcast Steve did he'd have this job where he'd update the players contact details and as Steve's from Sunderland (his brother least played for Sunderland) lived well at an address where practically all the first characters began with an S lol, so the rest of them said when Terry got around to him they wanted to be there so they could have a good laugh. The names for them were pretty funny like Des Himilton being called Brighty, Clever Lad or Aramadeso just cause he wasn't terribly that bright haha and they likened him to that old harry enfield ad for this chocolate bar Armadillos hard on the outside soft on the inside haha. In the podcast he said that when in the film Jumanji when those animals come thundering through then the rhino comes, Des is the rhino haha

[@jsmithmultimediatech]

Ahh yeah Steve's address then was 66 Ski View, Silksworth, Sunderland SR3 4PW haha (I thought he was taking the piss in the Look North programme but was actually his address lol). Another gold one was when Killer or Brian Kilcline, had this really awful tash and horrible long hair, John Beresford saying he wanted to cut it all off. After some kind of party Killer had passed out by the end of the night they'd shaved his whole tash off and shaved one side of his hair off, he went absolutely radgie about it, as he loved his tash lol

[@jsmithmultimediatech]

@@TynesideLife The podcast kzbin.info/www/bejne/a6Wko3-leaiVe5Y with Steve Howey🤣🤣

[@jsmithmultimediatech]

Armadeso nickname came from Des Hamilton being like the old Harry Enfield advert this one kzbin.info/www/bejne/mKLIeKuDnLuCfqs 🤣🤣🤣

[@maggotdrowner2940]

Take the front face apart and rebuild it as the entrance to the back of the new stand best of both

[@TynesideLife]

I think you need to read more into history and city development bud 😅 That’s Twitter world stuff

[@maggotdrowner2940]

@@TynesideLife can be an option restored buildings using old bricks has been done for years, if the only nice bit worth keeping is the front its doable

[@TynesideLife]

@@maggotdrowner2940 each project will be taken in its own merits. As you’ll know by the depth of research in my videos snd speaking with experts and those in authority I’d say anything is possible but this idea I’ll negligibly guarantee it’s a none starter

[@p.d.k3212]

Imo the council need to make a big decision risk Newcastle moving out of the city and local business loosing revenue

[@TynesideLife]

3 times a month for 8 months of the year. Newcastle United won’t move out of the city

[@theotherside8258]

Don't think the city will lose revenue. People will just spend the money on something else, possibly something constructive that they can keep and have to show for their money. It may bring money into the city by attracting fans of other clubs but we'll lose just as much by our fans going to other cities. Some pubs will suffer but other businesses will benefit instead. Perhaps a lot of blokes will consider spending time and money with their families instead.

[@renngretsch]

I was filled with more sadness when they knocked down the Handyside arcade than I ever would be if they levelled Leazes Terrace.

[@TynesideLife]

Many of us are proud of our Geordie history bud. It’s what makes us 🤛🏻

[@Mod-rw9cw]

Yes still miss the Kard bar now.

[@iancruise6927]

Expand the Gallowgate End. Newcastle’s ground will then be similar to Celtic Park.

[@TynesideLife]

I’d encourage you to watch the previous video Ian. Extending the Gallowgate is going to be almost impossible

[@theotherside8258]

its a shame people even consider harm to the listed buildings just so a business can make more money from what is only a game watched by a minority. Sooner they merge with Sunderland the better. Its not even a game of skill its just about who spends the most money on players that wins. The view of the listed buildings would be much improved by removal of St James.

[@TynesideLife]

🙄

[@davidhoward5392]

The sheer amount of time required just to be in position of maybe plus the increasing cost of planning, architects fees, legal fees, potential litigation, unforeseen events, may render this whole project just not viable. Whilst the owners quite rightly have pledged to stay at St James, the complexity of expanded the stadium, its greatest asset its location within the city is also its greatest weakness when it comes expansion of the ground. Whilst it's a hot talking point at present, it's peripheral to the development of the team and club, without the success we all hope for in the coming years. Whilst I would prefer to stay I remain of the opinion that success may make this discussion redundant and moving becomes a necessity.

[@TynesideLife]

I agree and I cover these points extensively in my previous two videos 👍🏻

[@davidhoward5392]

@@TynesideLife I have seen both of these, the Size of the Stadium because of the demand for tickets has muscled into an issue for some supporters, I see this as a distraction, its cart before horse syndrome without sustained success, trophies and regular champions league participation, stadium expansion does not happen..

[@TynesideLife]

@@davidhoward5392 you’ve summed up my three videos 😅

[@davidhoward5392]

@@TynesideLife more bullet points to your informative and excellent presentation 👏

[@JD-lp5rw]

You can't move from James park, it's possibly the most iconic stadium in the country, it'd kill the soul of the club completely.

[@PeaceDroneAerialVideo]

Hope it happens ✌🏼

[@TynesideLife]

I hope it doesn’t

[@DiscoverJesus]

I love SJP but if the owners want to get a 85k stadium they will need to find a new site

[@TynesideLife]

Fans want an 85k stadium. I’m certain the owners will have something a little more modest and realistic in mind 👍🏻

[@patriciacain1640]

Well the inside was gutted out so the buildings are already spoilt

[@TynesideLife]

I agree but they maintain their Grade 1 listing status. What did you think of the points made out in the video?

[@toonbarmy4201]

Relocate it to Beamish Museum. What an expensive operation that would be :(

[@TynesideLife]

You’ve been reading or watching too much nonsense bud

[@JohnDoe-wi1oy]

Dont see why it cant be moved north east towards the tennis courts.

[@TynesideLife]

You’d have to explain that thought process John 👍🏻

[@JohnDoe-wi1oy]

@@TynesideLife brick by brick relocation has been done on several historical buildings around the world. Would mean lifting the building up and slotting it into place in a new prepared location north east to where the tennis courts are now. That way it is still in the Leazes conservation area i believe and out of the way of St James' Park. Better than flat out demolishing it. Dont know whether that would be possible.

[@TynesideLife]

@@JohnDoe-wi1oy it’ll never happen bud

[@JohnDoe-wi1oy]

@@TynesideLife well then neither will demolition

[@TynesideLife]

@@JohnDoe-wi1oy I think you’re right and I articulate it. I’d encourage you to watch the video John 👍🏻

[@pb0497]

The facade aside, the building is awful. It hasn’t been kept to its original design and recently been turned into a lot of box rooms for students. For me personally, if it was in its original format then I’d say leave it but I think it loses weight in any argument if it’s been watered down over the years and made into ‘halls’.

[@buster9168]

It's only the facade that's listed. Maybe take it down brick by brick and move it.

[@tomfullard9862]

Totally agree. It only has value because of the thousands that see it as they go to sjp for the match, thats where the real historical value is. Leazes terrace is all fur coat and no knickers

[@GBDT]

@@buster9168 The whole building is listed not just the facade.

[@buster9168]

@@GBDT It's only the brickwork that's listed I've checked.

[@GBDT]

@@buster9168 I don't know who told you that but he is wrong. I worked in the Conservation team at Newcastle for 20 years. Any listing of a building includes the interior as well as any changes to the inside or outside will affect the whole listing,

[@wallsendgeordie4154]

If we can’t expand we have to build a new stadium like. I know st James’ is our cathedral on the hill but we have to meet demand to progress as a club. Imagine when we start to compete for trophies, think of the demand then. All of the foreign fans we’ll gain

[@TynesideLife]

👍🏻

[@jinkertsun]

So the Cathedral on the Hill is expendable?

[@wallsendgeordie4154]

@@jinkertsun for the greater good of the club yes!

[@jinkertsun]

@@wallsendgeordie4154 well if the new ground is built in Gateshead will you still think the same? Greater good and all that.

[@wallsendgeordie4154]

@@jinkertsun why would it be built on that side of the Tyne?

[@bensouthwell1339]

When I was a kid those buildings were derelict left to tramps and wino's the floor boards were ripped up and used for firewood starting small fires in various parts of the building, Hence the reason the insides are all gutted of the old. The courtyard is ramshackled at best and the Facade is certainly nothing special compared to Gray Street. It really is the Facade that holds key to its georgian looks and that can be taken down and rebuilt any where in the city. My take on the whole situation is Leazes Terrace is a middle class enclave populated by middle class people with middle class views on the world.

[@jinkertsun]

It’s also in a conservation area. A labour council knocking down listed buildings so a Saudi owned company can build a bigger ground. Doubtful.

[@TynesideLife]

Hi Ben, your comments don’t match the facts presented in the video. A facade is just an outer layer. You can’t rebuild a facade like that anywhere in newcastle. Have you seen how big it is?

[@bensouthwell1339]

@@TynesideLife I do know how big it is as a kid I used to play in the buildings that were falling down at the time, In fact I just talking to a guy that told me his memory of the place in the sixties was th the stench of piss. I also have a season ticket over the road from the terrace and I do drink in the Leazes End boozer just down the street. So I am familiar with the area and have been over the years.

[@bensouthwell1339]

@@jinkertsun Its almost as bad as Russian money flooding into London And swelling the pockets of the Tory Party....but that could never happen could it, Very Doubtful

[@jinkertsun]

@@bensouthwell1339 hell of a jump that. From Newcastle United to Oligarchs in one fell swoop.

[@davesmart653]

how about removing it and re-erecting it further north

[@TynesideLife]

The sheer size and shape of it would make this a staggeringly expensive operation. Plus, where would you move it? Just because there’s a green space or a park on a map, doesn’t make it available. The PIF are an investment fund, not a bottomless pit of money for NUFC just to add 15,000 seats into a stadium. It would make no economic sense.

[@Plymonk666]

Get rid of unprotected road for starts

[@TynesideLife]

👍🏻

[@ianlowery6964]

Why can't we do a deal to build a new stadium in leazes Park. Then when sjp is demolished develope the land as a Park it would take up the same space. I'm sure they could build something special both as a stadium and a new Park

[@TynesideLife]

Because the vast majority of Newcastle will oppose that Ian. 97’ should remind us of that. You need to watch all three of my videos bud 👍🏻

[@ianlowery6964]

@@TynesideLife yeah I understand that eddie but it wouldn't be like just taking the parkland more a case of rearranging it. As for blocking light look what they've done to the strawberry

[@TynesideLife]

@@ianlowery6964 the absolute best we could hope for is a minor infringement into the park. I interviewed the Chair of the Friends of Leazes Park who’s the best placed person to advise on what local conservation groups and residents would be mobilised to oppose. I interviewed her in one of my other two videos on the subject. I’m quite certain there were legal reasons why a pub was excluded from the rule whereas Leazes Terrace won’t be. As I explain in this video, light isn’t the only reason