Premier League club could abandon iconic 131-year-old stadium under radical plans to build new ground

One Premier League club's stadium could be abandoned depending on the results of a recent fan study.

The English top-flight is home to a number of iconic grounds. But very few are as old and traditional as Newcastle's home of St James' Park.

The division's most northerly ground, which has a capacity of 52,305, is the country's eight-largest stadium and the league's second oldest behind Stamford Bridge.

However, Magpies fans may be concerned to hear that the club are considering abandoning the 131-year-old stadium as they look to cater for the increased demands for tickets in Tyneside.

Newcastle chiefs had originally drawn up plans to expand the ground from 52,000 to 65,000, according to The Telegraph.

Although a recent fan survey has suggested the idea of building an entirely new stadium.

On Monday, a Newcastle statement read: "The survey will ask a number of hypothetical questions which are not indicative of any specific development aims at this stage, but are designed to ensure comprehensive feedback is captured from a range of supporters.

"The club thanks supporters in advance for taking the time to complete this survey and providing input into any recommendations that may be made."

One of the questions on the survey asks: "If you had a choice, would you prefer a renovated St. James' Park or a brand-new Newcastle stadium?"

Unsurprisingly, there has been plenty of backlash from Newcastle supporters who are firmly against the closing down of St James' Park due to its illustrious history.

Newcastle's head of communications Lee Marshall responded to the survey feedback by posting on Twitter: "Lots of feedback on the stadium survey, which is really the point. Important to stress it is about hypotheticals.

"If you do or don’t like aspects, please reflect it in your responses. It’s about asking and understanding, then striking the right balances as we grow together."

Changes at Newcastle are bound to happen following the enormous investment from Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund RB Sports & Media, as the club seeks to climb the ladder of European football.

However, the Magpies are currently limited by Financial Fair Play rules and must significantly increase their commercial revenue in order to spend big in the transfer market.

An increased capacity stadium would undoubtedly help pump up revenue and mark a major step on their path to footballing dominance.

Topics: Newcastle United, Premier League, Football

Joe Adams

Joe is a Journalist for SPORTbible with a primary focus on football. He has previously covered a number of other sports including boxing, rugby and F1. Wishes he was born left-footed.

@joeadamsjourno