Kingston Park planning boost
Newcastle Rugby Ltd’s plans include major development work to the North Stand which would increase the stadium’s capacity from approximately 10,000 to 11,730, with additional parking and infrastructure.
Significantly increasing the number of covered seats and hospitality spaces, which have both sold out on a number of occasions in recent seasons, the plans would also improve training, medical and office facilities.
The North Stand, which is currently an uncovered terrace with no bars or toilets, would be transformed into a state-of-the-art facility featuring 1,530 covered seats, standing accommodation for supporters, new fitness and medical facilities, meeting rooms and hospitality space.
A new fanzone and service area would be created around the East Stand.
Significantly, the plans also include the installation of an all-weather community pitch with floodlights and changing rooms which would allow further usage by schools, clubs and community groups as well as college and university teams.
Semore Kurdi, chairman of Newcastle Falcons, said: “It is great news for the club that Newcastle City Councillors have unanimously voted to approve the granting of planning permission.
“Our home crowds have risen consistently for the past few seasons to the point where we have regularly run out of seats and hospitality places, and it is important that we meet the demand for the increasing number of supporters who wish to attend our games.
“Our new community pitch will further enhance the great links we have with clubs, schools and groups in our region, and the additional training, medical and office space allows our rugby department to continue the improvements they have been making.”
Last season saw Newcastle Falcons enjoying their highest Premiership finish in 11 years, Dean Richards’ men continuing their improvement during the current campaign as they sit in the top half of the Aviva Premiership having already secured a home European quarter-final.
