NEWCASTLE UNITED are on the brink of announcing the final decision on the future of St James’ Park.
The Toon brass are weighing up building a brand-spanking new £1.2BILLION stadium to replace the iconic ground.
The prospect of expanding St James’ has also been discussed by board members.
And Chief Commercial Officer Peter Silverstone has revealed the potential departure from the stadium will “soon” be announced – just days after the recent visit of chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan.
He said: “We’re at that point where we’re deciding ‘Is it best to renovate and re-invigorate St James’ Park?’
“Which is renowned as one of the most atmospheric stadiums in the country.
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“Or build a new stadium as these projects have shown and other clubs in the Premier League have done.
“That is a decision which will be made relatively soon. What’s clear is we need to satisfy that demand.
“Every week we have a very intense fanbase which is determined to come and watch Newcastle but can’t.
“So you start with the fans and how we can service most of them and then look into what’s the best option from that.”
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Newcastle’s Saudi owners are said to be keen on a new ground to help take the club to the next level.
And Silverstone insists an increased capacity will do wonders for the club’s annual revenue.
He said: “St James’ Park is an iconic location that provides an incredible atmosphere and gives the team an advantage on the pitch.
“It already has 52,000 seats. A new stadium wouldn’t offer that right away, and we would have to pay again for every seat.
“However, a new venue could generate significantly higher revenue both on matchdays and beyond.”
Newcastle will be back in action this afternoon, welcoming Brighton to St James’ for their FA Cup fifth-round tie.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
