Newcastle’s St James’ Park Joins Protected List

Newcastle United’s St James’ Park has been listed as an ‘Asset of Community Value’ following an accepted application from the club’s supporters’ trust that will see the stadium protected under the Localism Act 2011, joining the likes of Manchester United’s Old Trafford and Liverpool’s Anfield Stadium also on the list.

A statement released by the trust read: ‘Newcastle United Supporters Trust can confirm that its application to have St James’ Park listed as an Asset of Community Value has been successful.’

‘St James’ Park holds memories for generations of supporters and is one of the focal points of our community. Its importance to Newcastle United is known throughout the world.’

‘Our support comes from a true cross section of the Newcastle United supporting community regardless of age, sex, religion, race – drawn together by our love of Newcastle United through the good times and bad times.’

‘The introduction of the Localism Act 2011 provided an opportunity for football fans to protect their stadiums and have them classified as an ‘asset for the community’.

A Newcastle City Council spokesman added: ‘We are pleased to report the application has been approved, recognising St James’ Park and the history surrounding it, as an asset to its community.’

‘We confirm that Newcastle City Council has determined that St James’ Park is an Asset of Community Value.’

The listing is five years and also includes a right to bid should St. James’ Park be put up for sale.

A right to bid can be lodged by the group concerned within six weeks, with finance secured in a period of up to four-and-a-half months.

It means St. James’ Park can’t be sold without the local community being told about it, and them being given the opportunity to bid for it themselves.

Currently whoever owns the club does not also own the land, with the Freemen of the City retaining the title of the land, making St. James’ Park an ‘Asset of Community Value’ – however, this situation could change in the future.

NUST board member Peter Fanning added: ‘It’s more of a symbolic gesture at Newcastle because they don’t own the land the Freeman of the City do.’

‘We want to demonstrate that anything to do with Newcastle United is a community issue. It’s a big club in a big city and it should be a community asset – it should be recognised as an asset of community value.’

Owner Mike Ashley, as well as manager Alan Pardew, continue to face criticism and pressure from fans after a disappointing start to the season – despite a number of new summer signings.