An alliance of more than 100 Newcastle bars and pubs has mounted a legal challenge against the Stack fanzone outside St James’ Park.

Earlier this summer, the 2,000-capacity venue was granted a five-year extension to its planning permission by Newcastle City Council.

But city centre businesses, uniting under the banner of the newly-formed NE1 Hospitality Group, are now trying to get the decision quashed.

They claim that the St James’ Stack, which opened in 2024 and now has approval to keep running until 2031, is endangering the city’s nightlife.

The group said that soaring footfall at the Stack, throughout the week and not just on Newcastle United matchdays, is taking trade away from other venues and putting jobs “at serious risk” at a time when the hospitality industry is struggling.

See Full Page