Newcastle United fans finally have an update on new stadium plans, although it is far from a firm update.
Toon supporters have been holding out for an official update on the future of St James’ Park, with the Newcastle United owners discussing plans to build a new stadium and leave their historic home.
However, Newcastle United’s stadium plans were delayed, and now the situation is arguably less clear than ever.
Even more delays with Newcastle United’s new stadium decision…🤔
David Hopkinson unable to provide firm Newcastle United stadium update
Speaking at a fan advisory board event on Monday night, CEO David Hopkinson finally addressed where the land lies regarding the Magpies’ stadium situation.
As reported by Sky Sports’ Keith Downie on X, Hopkinson said when asked where we are about a new stadium: “I don’t know! And we aren’t ready to know that yet! I’m not going to lie to you. We need to look at other opportunities whether renovated or reimagined.
“We have not made that decision yet. We are working on it every day. It’s not today or even next week either. But that doesn’t mean we’re not working on this furiously.
“It’ll be the most ambitious project this club has ever taken on. It’s unbelievably complex. We are not ready for grand designs or great announcements, it’s counterproductive to the whole project to be ahead of ourselves.
“I’m aware that’s not a popular answer.”
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Newcastle United fans are split after David Hopkinson’s St James’ Park admission
As expected, Hopkinson’s comments have garnered quite the reaction from Newcastle United fans far and wide. While he has not really said much, there is so much to unpack.
The Toon Army have been giving their thoughts on X, as the club continue to ponder what remains arguably the biggest decision in its history.
It is a seismic task, and this Toon fan at least appreciates the honesty from Hopkinson rather than being misleading.
They wrote on X: “At least they are being straight up with us, rather than saying announcement at X Y and Z.”
In contrast, this Toon supporter added: “They’ve been thinking about it for years. At least give people a ball park figure of how much longer the decision will be.”
A third Newcastle United fan gave his view, firmly pointing the finger at PIF: “Appreciate the candidness of his comments but the lack of progress on the stadium is a shambles. Not his fault but no other way to put it. Not good enough for a trillion pound investment fund who supposedly want to win it all.”
Another supporter wrote on X: “The biggest game changer for expanding revenue is a new stadium and all the sponsorships it brings. Yes it’s the biggest decision they have to make but they made it two years ago. The only reason why they haven’t announced it is PIF are dragging their heels. Probably about financing it.”
“That’s extremely disappointing to hear,” responded one fan who could not hide their displeasure at the stadium update.
Finally, this supporter asked: “I’m more interested in why it was imminent and now it’s just a thought. What happened?”
The future of St James’ Park remains a hot topic of debate among supporters. Some want to move, some want to stay. For others, they just want clarity.
In terms of revenue, it is vital Newcastle United build a new stadium. However, that comes with the caveat of losing what makes St James’ Park special. So many new stadiums are soulless, even if they do generate millions of pounds.
Throw in the complications of where the stadium will be located and how it will be financed and it is no wonder Hopkinson is unwilling to make any kind of promises he can’t keep.