Leeds mark 'momentous' start to Elland Road upgrade as West Stand work begins | OneFootball

Leeds United have begun work to enhance Elland Road, starting with the West Stand, describing it as a momentous moment in the club’s 106-year history.

The club said in a statement that work on the new West Stand begins with removal of the Banqueting Suite. It will be built over the existing structure, the first step towards UEFA Category 4 status.

Early works have seen the old ticket office and LUTV studio demolished and the banqueting suite behind the West Stand partly removed. Floodlights behind the stand have been taken down, and a temporary corporate hospitality facility is going up behind the Kop.

Executives from Leeds United, the Leeds United Foundation and Leeds City Council attended a ceremony alongside ambassadors Stuart Dallas, Tony Dorigo and Eddie Gray. Expanding capacity is deemed vital, with a 32,000 Season Ticket waiting list.

Planned improvements include better seating, comfort and sightlines throughout the new West Stand, enhanced concourses and fan amenity spaces, a more inclusive and accessible environment, and world-class hospitality. The upgrade is presented as a platform to attract top talent, providing a stage befitting elite-level football.

The project will also allow bids to host major international tournaments and showcase events with civic partners, generating cultural and economic value for the Leeds City Region. Regular updates will be provided throughout construction.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk