Leeds United’s iconic Elland Road ground has once again been designated as an Asset of Community Value (ACV) by the Leeds City Council. The council’s decision comes after the Leeds United Supporters’ Trust (LUST) submitted a nomination, which was wholeheartedly supported by the football club.
This ACV status signifies that in the event the owner decides to sell the premises, the local community will have the opportunity to bid for it on the open market. The council had initially recognised Elland Road as one of the city’s ACVs in late 2017, following a previous nomination from LUST.
As outlined by the Localism Act 2011, properties are placed on the local authority’s ACV list for a duration of five years at a time. Consequently, LUST recently submitted a newly-approved nomination for Elland Road after the expiration of its original listing period.
Elland Road, with its rich history and storied legacy, has long been cherished by fans and residents alike. The ground has witnessed countless memorable moments throughout Leeds United’s footballing journey, and its significance to the community cannot be overstated.
The ACV designation reinforces the commitment of both the council and the football club to preserve and protect Elland Road for the benefit of the local community. It ensures that the community’s interests are safeguarded should any future plans concerning the grounds arise.
Leeds United fans and local residents can take solace in the fact that Elland Road, with its esteemed status as an ACV, will continue to be an integral part of the community for years to come.
A spokesperson for Leeds City Council said; “The council can confirm that Elland Road has been included in its list of Assets of Community Value following a nomination by the Leeds United Supporters’ Trust.
“As is standard procedure, the nomination was carefully assessed by the council according to criteria set out in the Localism Act 2011.
“When those criteria are met, as they were in this case, then the building or piece of land in question becomes an Asset of Community Value.”
Councillor James Lewis, leader of Leeds City Council, said; “Elland Road is part of the fabric of life in our city, so I’m delighted that it has once again been confirmed as an Asset of Community Value.
“As a season ticket holder, I know how much the ground means to all Leeds fans. It’s seen plenty of ups and downs over the years, but it is our home and long may it remain so.
“As a council, we are hugely proud of Leeds’s reputation as a top-class sporting city and the role that famous venues like Elland Road play in raising our national and international profile.”
