Leeds United Submit Planning Permission for Elland Road Expansion

Leeds United have formally submitted a planning application to Leeds City Council as part of long-anticipated redevelopment plans for Elland Road, paving the way for a significant capacity increase and modernised facilities.

The proposed development will expand the ground’s capacity from 37,645 to 53,000, with provision to increase further to 56,500 in the future. This marks the first major renovation since the East Stand was completed in 1993.

The project is being driven by 49ers Enterprises, the club’s majority owners, who remain committed to the expansion regardless of Leeds’ future in the Premier League, which they return to next season.

Project Highlights:

• 53,000-seat target capacity, with outline permission for up to 56,500.

< >98% of public consultation respondents supported the overall plans.26,000 fans remain on the season ticket waiting list.New West Stand plans include enhanced hospitality designed to subsidise general admission pricing.North Stand development submitted as an outline application.Club insiders insist the expansion will not impact transfer budgets.No current plans to sell naming rights to Elland Road.

Chief Business Officer Morrie Eisenberg called it the product of “18 months of hard work”, adding that the proposals respect the heritage of Elland Road, which has been the club’s home since 1897 — six years before Leeds United was even founded.

“We believe this development will provide great economic benefits to the local community and be a catalyst for regeneration,” said Eisenberg.

The redevelopment is expected to minimise disruption during the season, with visible construction work unlikely before May 2026, should the application be approved. A final decision from the council is expected within 13 weeks.

The announcement comes amid strong demand, with Elland Road operating at 96% capacity during Leeds’ two recent seasons in the Championship.