This is the St James' Park upgrade Newcastle United supporters have been waiting for - it could get messy
Newcastle United have completed several improvements to St James’ Park since the end of last season.
Newcastle United will trial Boxbar self-service machines at St James’ Park this weekend.
The news is a huge relief for supporters keen to avoid those pre-match and half-time queues on the concourse. Newcastle have spent around £16million on stadium improvements in recent months.
Upgrades include a new hospitality suite, The Tidings, as well as large screens, enhanced WiFi coverage and the installation of safe standing in Level 7. For the players, a brand new pitch system was relayed for the first time in 21 years.
Despite ongoing discussions regarding St James' Park’s future, the Magpies are keen to keep their current home up to speed. The ground is also set to host five fixtures at Euro 2028.
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Boxbar trial at St James' Park
It is understood that Boxbar systems will now be trialled for the Aston Villa game this weekend. This is a direct result of fan feedback, with other grounds already having the self-service machines.
However, only the Gallowgate End, Leazes End and Bar 1892 will have Boxbar machines this weekend. If the technology proves a success, a full implementation could be rolled out across the ground.
David Hopkinson on St James' Park improvements
Toon CEO David Hopkinson highlighted the need to push on when confirming the St James’ Park improvements earlier this year. He said: “This investment is happening because progress at this club cannot and will not stand still. Sustained growth isn't about any one moment or any one decision.
“It's about consistently moving forward, raising standards and building momentum every single year. Whatever longer term decisions we make, one thing never changes and that's our ambition.
“That's why we're investing and that's why we keep pushing forward. The bigger questions about this stadium and our training ground will be answered in their own time. What matters today is the work already underway. Because everyone who walks through these gates deserves a club that keeps moving forward.”
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