Leeds United statement as major Elland Road development work underway with Tottenham Hotspur deadline

Leeds United are working to have safe standing across most of the Elland Road South Stand in time for next weekend’s Premier League game against Tottenham Hotspur.

Drone footage shared on social media over the weekend showed what appeared to be the installation of rail seating in sections of the South Stand. There is already safe standing in the North Stand, most of which was installed in 2024 after a successful trial two years prior.

Leeds have confirmed that the same rail seating will be in place across most sections of the South Stand in time for the visit of Spurs to Elland Road next Saturday. Any remaining sections will be completed across the international break and in time for the home fixture against Coventry City on November 28.

A club statement said: “Leeds United are pleased to announce work has started on the installation of rail seating within the South Stand at Elland Road. A trial phase of rail seating began in March 2022 and following this, in 2024 it was expanded across all of the North Stand upper tier and within parts of the away section.

“Following advice from the Sports Grounds Safety Authority, the club is now installing further rail seats in all sections of the South Stand. The South Stand upper tier, along with areas FA1 and FA6 in the South Stand lower tier will be completed in time for our forthcoming home Premier League fixture against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday 7 November 2026.

“The remaining seats not completed in the South Stand lower tier are due to be completed for the following home match against Coventry City on Saturday 28 November 2026. Whilst maintaining the need for seating throughout games, the rails will allow fans to stand comfortably during ‘key moments’ such as goals and offer a safer experience for supporters.

“Supporters are assured that rails will not impact line of vision, nor will it in any way restrict access to seats. The design is to enable fans to stand safely at key moments in the game, then revert to using seats at other times. All ticket holders are reminded that Elland Road is an all-seater stadium, and supporters must only use their allocated seat, keeping all aisles clear.”

Construction work in and around Elland Road has been ongoing for several months with plans to expand the ground’s capacity up to 53,000. Much of the current activity has been around the West Stand development, after which focus will turn to the North Stand.

Other recent changes include the installation of new dugouts, a makeshift hospitality facility behind the North Stand and a new temporary ticket office building outside the North East Corner. Leeds hope expansion of the stadium will be complete by late 2030.