Thursday is set to mark a significant day in the history of Leeds United and Elland Road.
A proposed expansion to the iconic stadium has been floated for many years, with a key decision now upcoming according to Leeds Live.
Council approval meeting set for 8 January
As reported by Leeds Live, Leeds City Council's planning committee is set to meet on Thursday 8 January to discuss the Peacocks' amended stadium plans.
The club are seeking permission to expand the West Stand and North Stand across two phases, taking the capacity of their home beyond 53,000, a major growth on its current capacity of around 38,000.
An initial planning application was submitted in July, with a decision expected in October 2025, but concerns raised by the planning committee forced a revision of the proposals.
After the adjustment of the stadium plans, planning offers are now believed to recommend giving full permission for Phase 1, the West Stand expansion, and likely permission for Phase 2, the subsequent North Stand work.
Prior obstacles overcome in planning?
After submitting initial plans for the large-scale expansion of Elland Road, Leeds United faced concerns from the City Council, particularly around issues regarding transport proposals.
The club and the council have since worked together to address such concerns, with a later announcement confirming that the city council's highway department were ready to give its support for the revised proposals.
Speaking in late 2025, a Leeds United spokesperson said: “After extensive discussions with Leeds City Council Highways Department, Leeds United are pleased to have received support for the planning application.”
“The club can today announce one of the most significant Section 106 agreements, which will fund highways improvements around Elland Road and the city of Leeds.”
“A sustainable and dynamic travel plan will also be introduced by the club, which hand-in-hand will help address transport and parking issues around Elland Road Stadium on a matchday.”
During the revision of plans, Leeds United chief business officer Morrie Eisenberg advised that the club has proposed to create a a full-time role of travel planning co-ordinator to assist with the traffic management issues brought about by the major increase in capacity.
FGG says: Finish line close for Leeds United
After the revision of plans and addressing of transport concerns with clear co-operation with the relevant council departments, Leeds United look set to get the go-ahead for their Elland Road expansion.
Such a development is majorly positive news for Leeds, with an expansion to a 53,000 capacity now in sight, offering opportunities for further growth on and off the pitch given the demand for tickets to support Yorkshire's highest-ranked club.