Blueprint for future of Elland Road land set to move forward

The statement aims to provide design and planning guidance on any future proposals that may be brought forward by landowners and developers in the area, which is one of the most significant development opportunities in the country with the potential to deliver a multi-billion-pound boost to the city’s economy and provide around 2,000 new homes for the city as well as creating a series of innovate leisure, education, public realm and commercial opportunities.

The final draft of the planning statement is the first time planning guidance for the area has been refreshed since 2007, and follows a comprehensive public consultation last summer, which gathered the views of the local community and key stakeholders.

Those views have played an important role in informing the final draft, with a number of changes made in response to local residents’ comments, including more clarity over how match day operations would work alongside any potential regeneration and how transport impacts would be considered and mitigated in future planning applications at the site.

The statement also comes after a planning application to expand the capacity of Elland Road to around 53,000 made further progress earlier this month, with the application deferred to the chief planning officer for approval.

A report to the executive board details some of the uses which could be acceptable for the land around the stadium under the new planning statement. They include examples such as a new community sports arena, hotel accommodation and workspaces, as well as educational facilities linked to sport, health and wellbeing.

Any future development proposals brought forward would be subject to planning applications from landowners and developers and any specific proposals would be subject to further public consultation.

The refreshed statement also outlines the future relocation of the existing interim park and ride currently operating at the site and how, subject to demand being evidenced, one or more multi-storey car parks could be permitted which could serve as matchday parking or other uses.

Any changes to parking provision would be phased to ensure the local highway network can function on matchdays and minimise any adverse impact on neighbouring communities.

As part of the proposals, connectivity between Elland Road and the city would also be improved, making it easier for people to choose active and sustainable modes of travel.

Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, said: “The land around Elland Road represents one of the most exciting development opportunities the city has seen for a generation, with the vast potential to completely transform and revitalise an area of Leeds steeped in local history and sporting heritage.

“This refreshed planning statement will act as both a guide and a catalyst for future proposals on the site, putting crucial elements in place that can enable the Elland Road area to be a year-round destination whilst also enhancing the existing neighbourhood and putting important new infrastructure in place.

“Combined with the club’s plans for the stadium, we believe this will see Elland Road become a standard bearer for sports and transport-led regeneration that the whole city can be proud of.”

Subject to approval, long-term options for park and ride provision for South Leeds will also be explored on the basis that the current site will be subject to redevelopment at a future point in time.

To read a full copy of the report, please visit: https://democracy.leeds.gov.uk/documents/s278272/Elland%20Road%20Cover%20Report%20020226.pdf

ENDS