Newcastle United fan zone plans move forward

Newcastle United FC have officially submitted plans for a new fan zone which will introduce a food, drink and entertainment venue to St James’ Park and create 150 jobs.The proposed fan zone will be created at Strawberry Place, which sits in the shadow of the stadium’s Gallowgate End, in partnership with STACK and the club’s front-of-shirt partner Sela.Under the plans, the scheme would be constructed in two phases to extend the site over a ground floor and first floor and will be built using repurposed shipping containers around a central plaza and main stage area, with a big screen for sporting events and live entertainment.Six bars and ten street food units are also planned.The club, which recently acquired the land, hopes to open the fan zone before the end of the year, with an initial lifespan of three years as it explores potential uses for the site.Previously, the land was a car park and was most recently used to accommodate materials for nearby construction projects.Darren Eales said: “Our fan zone is aimed at enhancing the experience not just for supporters visiting matches and big events at the stadium, but for people visiting the city centre seven days a week.”Submitting initial plans is just the first stage and there are a lot of steps in the process, but we are excited to continue working with our commercial and city partners to create something that will really add social and economic value to the location.”Neill Winch, chief executive of STACK, added: “The joint venture with Newcastle United to create a fan zone in the city centre is exciting for many reasons, not least of which is the coming together of two great North East brands.”We believe this development is going to be a huge asset, not just to the club and its amazing fans, but to the city as a whole.”While STACK is now growing to become a national chain, the fact that our very first venture was in Newcastle means it has a special place in our affections.”We are delighted to be working with the club and Sela to provide a ‘best in class’ experience for fans and the community, not only on match days, but every day of the week.”