Newcastle United have officially confirmed to the Premier League that the capacity of St James' Park has been expanded, but only by a very small number of seats since the start of last season. The underwhelming news has caused more frustration for fans and led to questions about the club’s progress on plans to increase capacity to 65,000 either through renovation or a new stadium.
Newcastle expand capacity at St James' Park
The Premier League has confirmed the official capacity at St James' Park has expanded to 52,264 for the new campaign, up from 52,257 in the previous campaign. The update has been met with disappointment and frustration by fans, who continue to await news of a stadium upgrade for Eddie Howe's side.
AdvertisementGetty Images SportFed-up Newcastle fans react to update
"They'll be celebrating in the public schools of Dundee," is how X user @CapitalG5000 responded to the news.
There was more sarcasm from @gallowgatenufc1, who posted: "No more need for anymore stadium plans or mock ups. Sorted. I might actually get a ticket now."
And @famoussnumber9 joked: "Will have to draft more foreign fans in to help fill the stadium then."
What are the latest Newcastle stadium plans?
Newcastle were expected to reveal proposals for a new 65,000-seater stadium in early 2025 but those plans have been delayed. The club's Saudi ownership are now prioritising delivering other key updates before turning attentions back to the stadium, according to the . A final decision has yet to be made on whether to build a new ground at nearby Leazes Park or to redevelop and expand St James’ Park.
Getty Images SportNewcastle's next fixture: A Champions League clash with Barca
Fans will pack into St James' Park on Thursday for Newcastle's next fixture when Barcelona come to town in the Champions League. An electric atmosphere will be expected on Tyneside as both sides aim to open up their respective European campaigns with a victory.