A Leeds City Councillor has explained why he decided to vote in favour of proposals to expand Elland Road after initial concerns.
Leeds United are preparing to increase the capacity of their Yorkshire home to 53,000 following a return to the Premier League at the end of the 2024-25 campaign.
After initially struggling on the top table of English football, Daniel Farke's side enjoyed a fruitful spell through the festive period.
The goalscoring efforts of summer arrival Dominic Calvert-Lewin in particular have helped Leeds move well clear of relegation trouble in the Premier League standings.
Farke's troops are currently occupying 16th spot in the rankings ahead of the hosting of Fulham at Elland Road on Saturday afternoon.
“Travel plan is robust” – Councillor explains expansion vote
Earlier in January, the council's City Plans Panel met to vote on the proposed expansion of Elland Road, with the idea winning the favour of 11 councillors, with only one member against the arrangement.
Councillor for the Pudsey area, Simon Seary, has posted on Facebook outlining his changed stance on the plans.
“This was the fourth time the application has come before the panel, reflecting just how complex and detailed it is,” explained Seary.
“As I went into the meeting, I did have concerns about how an additional 15,000 supporters could be moved safely and in a timely way on match days without making the situation worse.
“However, officers were able to reassure members that the proposed travel plan is robust, with a strong focus on public transport, car sharing, and more dedicated football bus services linking into Stourton Park & Ride, White Rose, and Leeds train station.
“I am pleased to have been able to support the application and I am looking forward to seeing the next chapter for Elland Road and the positive impact this investment can bring to Leeds.”
What are the next stages in the Elland Road expansion?
With approval provided by the local council, Leeds can now begin to put visible steps into place to begin expanding the North and West Stands at Elland Road.
It is understood that the venue will remain fully operational throughout the expansion, with the majority of the work taking place during the summer and international breaks.
This will allow Elland Road to run as usual throughout the remainder of the Premier League campaign, with Farke's side looking to stay well clear of relegation trouble.
FGG says: Another hurdle jumped
The recent comments of councillor Seary following the City Panel meeting confirms that concerns over transport were holding back to the proposed Elland Road plans.
Accommodating for an additional 15,000 supporters on matchdays is a major ask but it appears that all parties that such an arrangement will be possible.