Newcastle United’s proposal for a £190 million training facility has received backing from the city council leadership. The club announced Thursday that it has secured the Woolsington Hall estate, a 260-acre property, as the intended location for its new performance complex. The site, which contains a historic country house and grounds, was previously acquired in 1994 by former Newcastle chairman Sir John Hall, who had envisioned relocating the academy operations there.
Colin Ferguson, leader of Newcastle City Council, expressed support for relocating the club’s training operations within city limits from their current base in Longbenton. However, he emphasized that the development would face thorough examination through the planning process. Ferguson noted that residents in the affected area would have the opportunity to voice concerns and that the council’s independent planning committee would conduct rigorous assessment of any formal application.
The project timeline indicates a planning application submission is anticipated in early 2027, with potential completion before the 2029/30 season. Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, which owns Newcastle United, and RB Sports and Media are funding the initiative. Club executives have described the venture as transformative, projecting it will establish an elite training environment for both the first team and academy.
A council spokesperson confirmed the proposal would undergo standard consultation procedures identical to other development applications. This announcement represents a significant infrastructure commitment from the club’s Saudi-backed ownership structure.
Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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