The removal of the famous St James’ Park sign from outside the stadium has been described as “corporate vandalism” by local MPs.
An Early day Motion put forward at Westminster condemns the decision to rename the stadium and urges Mike Ashley to reconsider. The Motion has been supported by local MPs including Dennis Skinner and carries 12 signatures.
Here’s how it reads:
Newcastle United and the renaming of St James’ Park
That this House deeply regrets the decision to rebrand the historic home of Newcastle United Football Club, St James’ Park; condemns the corporate vandalism perpetrated by the clubs owners in removing the name “St James’ Park” from the stadium; warmly endorses the now famous front page banner headline of the local Evening Chronicle ‘St James’ Park and Always Will Be’; notes that the Chief Executive of Newcastle’s new shirt sponsor, Virgin Money has added her concerns about the rebranding and hopes that others will follow her example; notes that Newcastle City Council have debated and agreed a motion stating that the Council have no plans to change any way-finding signs which bear the name St James’ Park, rather than the name of Mike Ashley’s business; and urges Mike Ashley the owner of Newcastle United to reconsider his decision.
The SJP sign was removed last Thursday. The club maintains that the name change to Sports Direct Arena is a commercial decision and Sports Direct will remain sponsor until a new party is found.
Newcastle City Council has also stood firmly against the rebranding of the historical site.
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