Newcastle United have played at St James’ Park since 1892 and the stadium is an iconic staple of Tyneside
Eagle-eyed Newcastle United supporters noticed St James’ Park underwent some much-needed TLC during the international break.
Decrepit signage around the stadium has been replaced, with an ageing club crest on the Milburn Stand replaced with a sleek new design. The owners have made tweaks to the ground to appease fans since buying the club in October 2021 and improve the match-day experience.
Most famously, the new regime ripped down the Sports Direct logos that were emblazoned across every corner of St James’ Park – including the iconic “Newcastle United” sign on the East Stand. Improvements have also been made to the food and drink selection and the new STACK venue has given supporters a dedicated 3,000-capacity fan zone on matchdays.
Geordie Journos on ShotsTV! Paul Mitchell & Eddie Howe – how will it end?
But fans are not entirely happy with the latest move to give the cathedral of the hill a lick of paint. While the Milburn Stand’s signage got a makeover, the Gallowgate End also received similar treatment.
However, the new design mirrors the previous one by labelling the prominent part of the ground as the “Gallowgate Stand” – not “End”. One fan wrote: “Never heard anyone call it the Gallowgate Stand.”
This freshen-up comes amid speculation regarding St James’ Park’s future. Club sources insist the hierarchy want to remain at the current location – where Newcastle have played since 1892.
But ticket demand far outweighs supply and the stadium has proven a logistical nightmare to expand due to Leazes Park and Leazes Park Terrace. The Telegraph reported earlier this year that the Magpies hope to increase to 60,000, working alongside local authorities, following a lengthy feasibility study.
