Newcastle confirm plan for new fan zone behind St James' Park in Strawberry Place, as Magpies also eye long-term extension plans

Newcastle United have confirmed they have begun the planning application process for a brand new fan zone at Strawberry Place.

Mail Sport revealed in February that the Magpies had bought the land directly behind St James' Park with a view to further expansion around the stadium.

On Wednesday, the club tweeted about the new process, in partnership with STACK and Sela, their new front-of-shirt partner.

On their official website, Newcastle said: 'An initial planning application has now been lodged with Newcastle City Council, with a proposed fan zone to be constructed in two phases to extend the site over a ground floor and first floor.'

The fan zone is set to create entertainment and food options for matchday visitors, turning into a general social destination away from football events.

Built with repurposed shipping containers - similar to BOXPARK retail hubs in London - Newcastle United hope to open the fan zone by the end of 2023, subject to planning and licensing being granted.

The site will also create 150 full-time and part-time jobs, with the club's Foundation using its NU Futures programme to give opportunities to people in the local area.

It follows from February's news that Strawberry Place, directly behind the stadium, had been purchased by the club amid expansion plans for the Magpies.

Long-term options will be explored to see if they can increase the 52,300 capacity of St James' Park. Demand for tickets has reached unprecedented levels since the Saudi-led takeover in 2021.

The club’s owners were determined to buy the land that was sold four years ago by Mike Ashley to private developers Helios Real Estate and Marrico for £9m. Most recently, it was in the hands of Reditum Capital.

Ashley’s move led to concerns among