Leeds United has officially secured planning permission to expand Elland Road, giving the club the green light to move ahead with a landmark stadium redevelopment that will significantly increase capacity and modernise facilities.

Leeds City Council has granted consent for the long-planned expansion, marking a major milestone for both the club and the city. The approved scheme focuses on the redevelopment of the West and North Stands, alongside targeted alterations to the South Stand to support the enlarged stadium bowl.

Once completed, Elland Road’s capacity will increase from around 37,000 to up to 53,000 seats, placing it among the largest club stadiums in England. The redevelopment has been designed to meet UEFA Category 4 standards, enabling the stadium to host major international fixtures and other high-profile events in the future.

The club has highlighted the positive impact the expansion will have for supporters, particularly in addressing a season-ticket waiting list of approximately 26,000 fans. The increased capacity will allow thousands more supporters to attend matches regularly, while improvements to sightlines, concourses, amenities and accessibility are intended to significantly enhance the overall matchday experience.

Enabling works are set to begin immediately, with major construction scheduled to start after the current season concludes. This approach will allow Elland Road to remain operational throughout the redevelopment process, minimising disruption to fixtures and supporters.

The project is also closely linked to wider regeneration plans for the Elland Road area. Working alongside the local authority, the club aims to deliver transport and public-realm improvements to manage increased footfall, support local businesses and generate long-term economic benefits for the surrounding community.

Club leadership has described the approval as a historic step, aligning the stadium expansion with ambitions to establish Leeds United securely in the Premier League and compete consistently at the highest level. The redevelopment is being positioned as the first phase of a broader transformation of the Elland Road district, combining football success with lasting social and economic value for the city of Leeds.