Council bosses have denied any ‘secrets or secrecy’ over reports that Newcastle United could build a new stadium on Leazes Park, the grade-II listed green space next to St James’ Park.
00:00Rumours have circulated for months now that the Magpies could leave their long-time home, St James's Park, in favour of a purpose-built arena on Lees's Park,
00:10a protected green space with a Grade 2 listing, prompting concern from conservation groups.
00:15While fans await any firm decision from the club, the prospect of a Saudi super-stadium has stirred strong public reaction.
00:23This summer, a petition backed by more than 28,000 signatures was submitted to Newcastle City Council opposing the proposed move.
00:32Independent councillor Jane Byrne demanded transparency over what discussions had taken place,
00:38specifically whether the club has sought to purchase, lease or transfer the Lees's Park site
00:43and what communication has occurred between the council's leadership and Newcastle United.
00:47In response, the council revealed a Freedom of Information request covering emails from 2018 to the present had been refused,
00:56on the grounds that at least 31,680 emails appeared relevant and it would therefore take an enormous investment of time to review them.
01:05Deputy Council Leader Alex Hay told councillors,
01:08Residents care about the football club, the council cares about the football club,
01:12but I am not going to comment on rumour or hypotheticals.
01:15He added that no planning application has been received from Newcastle United for development on Lees's Park
01:21or for a major redevelopment of St James's Park.
01:24Hay stressed that while the council is absolutely committed to a policy of transparency,
01:29it must also safeguard commercially sensitive discussions in accordance with good governance.
01:34He affirmed that that is not about secrets or secrecy.
01:37Newcastle United declined to comment.
01:40All eyes now remain on the club for any formal announcement on their future.
Be the first to comment