Partnership set to kick forward Elland Road plans

A multi-billion-pound regeneration project centred around Elland Road Stadium, in Leeds, is gaining momentum through a new regional partnership.

West Yorkshire Combined Authority has joined Leeds City Council and The Lowy Family Group, Leeds United’s development partner, by signing the existing Memorandum of Understanding supporting the transformation of the 40-acre Elland Road area.

The plans include 2500 new homes, workspace, retail, public spaces and upgraded sports facilities surrounding the stadium.

Partners are also committed to progressing a proposed mass transit system linking Elland Road with Leeds city centre and the wider region.

The wider regeneration project, alongside the planned expansion of Elland Road Stadium, is expected to deliver a multi-billion-pound boost to the local economy and create one of the UK’s largest sport-led redevelopment schemes.

Councillor James Lewis, leader of Leeds City Council, said: “We have come a long way in a very short space of time. 

“This time last year, we were talking about concepts; and today, we are seeing real action on the ground, with probably the most shovel-ready sports-led regeneration project in the UK.

“The progress we’ve made so quickly shows exactly what Leeds can do when we have a clear plan and strong collaboration. 

“At every home game I’m looking forward to watching the regeneration move forward before I go through the turnstiles, as we build a new future for Elland Road that everyone in our city can be proud of.”

Tracy Brabin, mayor of West Yorkshire, added: “Leeds United are staying up, and our ambitions for the city couldn’t be higher. 

“This groundbreaking partnership is about turning momentum into real change – new homes, good jobs, and a year-round destination for tourism and growth.

“By working together, we’ll transform Elland Road and the surrounding area into the vibrant, well-connected community that local fans and families need and deserve.”

Leeds United has already secured planning permission for the stadium expansion, while updated planning guidance for the surrounding area has also been published.

A Strategic Outline Case for the proposed mass transit system is due to be submitted to Government later this year.

Peter Lowy, a principal at Lowy Family Group and a director at Leeds United Football Club, added: “This partnership reflects a shared ambition to deliver long-term transformation for Leeds. 

“Over the past year, strong collaboration between all partners has helped turn the vision for Elland Road into real momentum. 

“The stadium redevelopment is an important catalyst for the wider regeneration opportunity around Elland Road, creating the potential for new homes, jobs, public spaces and long-term investment in Leeds.

“Mass transit connectivity is fundamental to unlocking that future potential and supporting the continued growth of both the club and the city.”

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