Fresh footage reveals Newcastle United St James’ Park upgrade progress – will be complete for 2024-25 opener
Newcastle United fans have something special to look forward to with the imminent opening of the St James’ STACK fan zone. Although the exact opening date has yet to be confirmed, Newcastle’s chief executive, Darren Eales, has assured that the fan zone will be ready in time for the start of the 2024-25 Premier League season on August 17.
Construction on the St James’ STACK fan zone commenced in January 2024 and is now in its final stages. Recent drone footage from 55 Degrees North on YouTube reveals the extensive progress made at Strawberry Place.
All 56 shipping containers are now in place, the groundwork is complete, and finishing touches are being applied to the central plaza and stage areas.
Eales also highlighted the positive impact of the new Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Regulations (PSR) cycle on the club’s financial situation.
The club had faced tight financial constraints due to £70 million in losses over the past couple of years. However, with the start of a new PSR cycle, Newcastle United is set to benefit from new revenue streams.
“We’ve now got a new [PSR] cycle that kicks into play because we had a couple of years where we were £70 million in losses which meant it was quite tight for us this financial year until June 30. Now we lose one of those years with £70 million [losses] so that’s good news for the supporters and the club – looking forward now we’ve got a new cycle. We’ve got new revenues coming online so things like Adidas, we have that partnership, we have the merchandise we get from Adidas, St James’ STACK is going to open for the new season, so all those factors help us,” Eales explained.
The St James’ STACK fan zone is expected to be a significant economic boost for Newcastle, creating approximately 150 full-time and part-time jobs. Many of these roles will be first-time job opportunities facilitated through the NU Futures programme, established by the Newcastle United Foundation.
Open seven days a week throughout the year, the fan zone will provide a consistent income stream for the football club.
Long-Term Vision for St James’ STACK
Newcastle United secured planning permission for the fan zone to remain at the Strawberry Place site for the next three years. The club reacquired the land from developers in early 2023, having been previously sold by former owner Mike Ashley.
The fan zone’s design includes a central plaza, main stage area, and a variety of food and drink outlets, making it a vibrant hub for fans and visitors.
Diverse Culinary Offerings at the Fan Zone
Fans can look forward to an array of food outlets within the St James’ STACK fan zone. The confirmed vendors include:
- Tiptop
- Soji & Gogi
- Dabbawal
- Acropolis
- Texas Smoker
- Brack Burger
- Davey’s Mexicano
- ZZA Pizzeria
- Yolo Coffee & Kitchen
- Holy Duck
The opening of the St James’ STACK fan zone marks a new era for Newcastle United fans, offering a state-of-the-art facility that enhances the matchday experience. With its economic benefits, job creation, and diverse culinary options, the fan zone is set to become a central part of the Newcastle community. As the 2024-25 Premier League season approaches, fans eagerly await the official launch of this exciting new venue.
