Exclusive: Although there is a lot of talk about Newcastle United moving to a new stadium that will house 80,000 people, Brad Miller asked how far the Magpies would push the envelope.
Following Chief Operating Officer Brad Miller’s remarks regarding the next stages, Newcastle United supporters are anxiously awaiting more information on the team’s stadium proposal.
When asked if they would be open to a move that could potentially DOUBLE revenue and result in “more seats” for supporters, the majority of the 2,000 people in attendance raised their hands during a fan meeting held at the STACK last week, where Miller spoke candidly about the club leaving St. James’ Park for a new stadium. Unavoidably, though, some supporters who missed the We Are United event oppose the idea of leaving what many consider to be the club’s spiritual home.
Gosforth Park was being considered as a possible location for a new stadium, according to a report published in the Guardian on Monday. Chronicle Live is aware, though, that those near boardroom level at St. James’ Park have downplayed a transfer four miles outside the city, especially because it is a no-go for many supporters.
“Option two is if we were to move away, but not too far away because we aren’t going to stretch the elastic band to the point of breaking,” Miller told fans last week when discussing the venue.
“We are seriously considering the second alternative because, in comparison to transforming St. James’ Park, it has the potential to generate more than twice as much revenue. And additional seats—possibly a lot more seats.”
There have been previous suggestions for Gosforth Park as a viable site and training area. These connections may be unavoidable given that the Reuben family, who own 15% of United, has been involved in the renovation of Newcastle Racecourse.
But Miller’s explanation of stretching the “elastic band” may be instructive and suggests a place nearer the city centre. The club’s recommendations, which will be presented to the Fan Advisory Board and eventually the larger fan base, will be United’s next move in 2025.
For Newcastle, consultation is crucial since, in the past, throughout various administrations, fans have not been amenable to transferring to new locations, whether it was Team Valley or Gosforth Park under Sir John Hall.
While the city center’s pubs, restaurants, and hotels are a huge hit with Newcastle fans and away supporters, Gosforth Park would have weak transport connections. However, there has undoubtedly been a shift in some people’s perspectives regarding leaving St. James’.
Last week, Miller responded to a straw poll by saying, “Wow, wow. There was a survey last year, to which you may have contributed. 71% of respondents at the time advised staying at St. James’ Park.
“Only 29% were open to moving. I think it is credit to everybody that they are open minded. Everybody now understands the importance of PSR.” Head coach Eddie Howe could, ultimately, one day benefit from increased attendances. He also acknowledged the importance of more revenue coming in but he has never fully backed leaving SJP. He said: “Yeah, revenue is key. It is with the current rules as they stand. Everything you do is defined by how much money you can bring in. It’s taken in extra importance with the PSR rules as they currently stand. “That is why the club are looking at every avenue to try to increase the money that we are bringing in.”
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