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Former Everton Chief Sounds Alarm on Multi-Use Stadiums
As Newcastle United contemplates the future of its stadium, former Everton CEO Keith Wyness has issued a stark warning. In a recent podcast, Wyness described West Ham’s experience with the London Stadium as a “cautionary tale” for the Magpies. His insights come at a crucial time, as Newcastle’s ownership considers various options for their own ground development.
Respecting Fan Experience is Paramount
Wyness, who led Everton from 2004 to 2009 and now advises top clubs through his consultancy, stressed the importance of prioritising the fans in any stadium decisions. He believes that Newcastle’s Saudi-backed ownership must avoid the pitfalls that West Ham encountered by not fully embracing the unique atmosphere that a football-only venue can provide.
“You’ve got to respect the fans,” Wyness stated, highlighting that any move towards a multi-use stadium should be carefully evaluated. He argued that while the idea of a versatile stadium may appear appealing on paper, the reality can be quite different, especially when it comes to maintaining a vibrant matchday atmosphere.
Newcastle’s Feasibility Study: What’s Next?
Recent reports indicate that Newcastle is in the “advanced stages” of a feasibility study for their stadium, with plans for tangible developments expected by 2025. This study may examine the potential for hosting other sporting events, such as NFL games, to generate additional revenue. However, Wyness cautioned that this could compromise the essence of what makes St James’ Park special.
Learning from West Ham’s Mistakes
West Ham moved into the London Stadium in 2016, but the transition has not been without its challenges. Critics have pointed out that the stadium, originally designed for athletics, has created a disconnect between fans and the pitch, largely due to the presence of a running track. Wyness noted that this design flaw has detracted from the overall experience for supporters.
“The biggest criticism has been the fact that the stadium was never built for football,” he remarked, suggesting that Newcastle should take heed of these lessons. He contrasted West Ham’s situation with that of Tottenham Hotspur, which has successfully integrated fan needs into its multi-use design while still maintaining a strong football atmosphere.
Acoustics and Atmosphere: The Key Considerations
Wyness emphasised the importance of acoustics and atmosphere in any new design. He insisted that Newcastle must ensure that the spirit of the club and its supporters is preserved in any redevelopment plans. “As long as Newcastle understand acoustics, the need to fit in the atmosphere – it’ll be fine,” he said, reinforcing that the emotional connection between fans and their team is what truly defines live sports.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Newcastle United
As Newcastle United lays the groundwork for what could be a significant transformation, the club must tread carefully. The lessons learned from West Ham’s experience serve as a reminder that fan engagement and atmosphere should never be sacrificed for the sake of commercial gains. The Magpies have a unique heritage to uphold, and their stadium should reflect that legacy.
Stay Updated on Newcastle’s Journey
As developments unfold, fans will be keen to see how Newcastle United balances ambition with tradition. For the latest updates on the club’s stadium plans and other news, follow Newcastle United on social media or join their WhatsApp Channel for instant notifications.
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