Eddie Howe has expressed a strong preference for Newcastle United to remain at St James’ Park rather than relocating to a new stadium, describing the potential move as a ‘betrayal.’ The club’s Saudi Arabian owners are expected to make a decision in 2025 on whether to expand and modernize their current home or build a new ground elsewhere in Tyneside. Given St James’ Park’s central location in the city, there are compelling reasons against moving. However, its close proximity to Georgian townhouses complicates the idea of expanding the stadium’s capacity from 53,000 to around 65,000, at an estimated cost of at least £800m.
Despite these challenges, Newcastle’s manager has cautioned the club’s hierarchy about the risk of ‘losing something special.’ ‘What makes St James’ Park so unique is its position in the city,’ Howe said. ‘That makes it totally unique. I’d hate to see the stadium move because it dominates the eye-line of the whole city and you can see it from miles around. That’s totally inspiring. Wherever you are in [central] Newcastle you get a glimpse and that’s so powerful.’
‘When you’re in it, the atmosphere, the look of the stadium, it’s a beautiful thing. I love being there, I love experiencing games there. The first time I managed at St James’ Park with Bournemouth I was like ‘Wow, I’ve never managed in a stadium quite like that’. St James’ Park blew me and my staff away. If the club was to move they would lose something special.’
‘My natural instinct was always to stay,’ Howe added. ‘St James’ Park is an incredible place to play football. It’s our home. So to sort of think about moving somewhere else feels like a little bit of a betrayal to somewhere that’s served us so well.’ However, Howe acknowledged the need for the club to increase its revenue, leaving the final decision to those with ‘more brain cells’ for the long-term benefit of the club.
If a new stadium is deemed necessary, Newcastle might consider developing land in Leazes Park, adjacent to St James’ Park. This would keep them in the city centre but could face strong opposition from various groups committed to preserving the green spaces that set Newcastle apart from many other English cities. Previously, it was thought that Newcastle might relocate to the north bank of the Tyne, but that area is now slated for much-needed social housing.
