Newcastle United has announced plans to install new scoreboards at St James' Park, marking the first major addition of its kind since 1993. The Premier League club confirmed on Friday, July 3, that the historic stadium will receive two new scoreboards and a replacement of an existing screen ahead of the next season.
Details of the New Scoreboards
According to reports from ChronicleLive, one scoreboard will be added at the Strawberry Corner and another at the Gallowgate End, which has not featured a display for over 30 years. The big screen at the Leazes End will be replaced entirely. Notes from a June meeting of Newcastle's Fan Advisory Board indicate that stadium chief Brad Miller confirmed the new scoreboards will face outwards. Miller also assured fans that no seats would be lost and views of the pitch would not be affected by the new screens.
Pitch Redevelopment and Other Improvements
Miller reportedly told supporters that a £10 million pitch redevelopment includes changes to its gradient and drainage to improve surface quality. Workers are preparing the new-look pitch ahead of Newcastle's first pre-season friendly against Bayer Leverkusen on August 15. The club's plans aim to boost ground staff's confidence in hosting more matches at St James' Park and extend use of the venue for concerts into July, in addition to June. Sam Fender performed for two nights at the stadium last summer, with rumours that Oasis could play two dates next year as part of a follow-up tour.
Sandro Tonali Transfer
The stadium news comes after Tottenham Hotspur reportedly struck a deal with Newcastle to sign Sandro Tonali. The Athletic first reported that the 26-year-old is heading to Spurs in a deal worth £100 million. Tonali confirmed the move, telling reporters: "Newcastle wanted the best for me and we wanted the best deal for them. So I think that once you go like this it is different, so we are all happy and I am ready for the new challenge."
