Leeds United make ‘key’ appointment in Elland Road development plans
Leeds United have appointed former city councillor Lucinda Yeadon to help with the redevelopment plans at Elland Road.
The news was confirmed by the Whites’ published minutes for the Supporter Advisory Board, which were released this week with the meeting having taken place on November 5.
LeedsLive (21 November) described the appointment as “key” and the minutes from Leeds explained how Yeadon, a councillor with 10 years of experience, will be a key cog in liaising between supporters and those working on the redevelopment plans.
“Lucinda Yeadon (LY) [will be] working alongside the club in the proposed expansion. [Her] role will be speaking with the community regarding plans, listening to feedback and working with consultants managing the project,” the minutes read.
“[She] wants to return in the future with more in-depth plans and is keen to engage with the group. Angus Kinnear (AK) says LY is important for fan engagement during the development.
“LY to bridge between club, consultants and supporters. AK says there is scope to facilitate specific meetings. SAB to go away and agree on a structure of dialogue with LY in the future. AK stresses [the] importance of ensuring the stadium still feels like Elland Road.”
Leeds United understand supporter approval in Elland Road redevelopment
Back in September, Leeds announced their ambitions in regards to the redevelopment plans of Elland Road, which includes increasing the capacity to 53,000 due to the sheer demand for tickets right now.
While such news brings obvious excitement, as well as undoubted financial benefits, there is obviously natural scepticism that comes with such plans.
The main concern for Leeds is obviously ensuring that a bigger stadium doesn’t lead to a loss of soul within the stadium. When Elland Road is bouncing it can be an absolute cauldron and a real weapon against opposing sides. Few venues in the UK can match Elland Road when the place is in full voice.
So, it is genuinely encouraging to see this sort of appointment being made by the club because it shows they are putting supporters right in the heart of this project. You have to credit all those involved for doing so because the fans are the heartbeat of the club.
In other Leeds United news, Angus Kinnear made an admission on the Whites’ squad after what he saw.
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