Gateshead's New Stadium
Gateshead Football Club have unveiled the site and plans for their eagerly awaited new stadium development in the centre of town.
Gateshead FC will build a new state-of-the-art stadium on a derelict site, formerly North Durham Cricket & Rugby Club, opposite Gateshead Civic Centre.
The stadium will have a capacity of around 9,000, with a 2,000 seater main stand, and all four sides of the ground will be covered.
The proposed stadium is planned to a high specification which will enhance the surrounding area and easily satisfy the criteria required for Football League status.
Looking towards the North East at the Main Stand on Prince Consort Road
Facilities at the stadium will include reception and club offices, dressing rooms, a medical room, press and spectator facilities.
There will also be executive suites and boxes and multi-functional space for match day hospitality and lettable business space.
The pitch will measure 105 metres x 68 metres and will be to FIFA standard.
On non-match days the stadium will be available for exhibitions and conferences, and there will be free parking for 600 cars at the adjacent Civic Centre.
Looking towards the North West at the street frontage of the Main Stand on Prince Consort Road
The standing areas on three sides of the stadium will be capable of conversion to seating, in which event the capacity would be reduced to 6,000.
The Football Association is most impressed with the proposed new stadium which will form part of the 2018/22 Newcastle/ Gateshead World Cup bid.
It is envisaged that the venue would be utilised to accommodate open training sessions for teams from participating countries.
Street view of the Main Stand on Prince Consort Road
Chairman Graham Wood, the driving force behind the exciting developments at his hometown club, is confident Gateshead FC can rekindle former glories.
"We have achieved an awful lot over the last few years and the construction of a new stadium in a central location is pivotal to our aspirations," said Wood.
"It is ideally placed for the transport network. It will also be within walking distance for many supporters and will enable us to increase our fan base.
"Having our own stadium will also enable us to further develop our income streams and allow us to continue to drive the club forward.
"These are exciting times for Gateshead Football Club. The new stadium will be a great addition to the town and give the club a real identity amongst the community."
If everything goes to plan the club are hoping to move into their new stadium for the start of the 2011-12 campaign.
The new stadium on Prince Consort Road will be the first to be owned by the club.
