MANCHESTER UNITED have taken another step towards building a new 100,000-seater stadium.
The Red Devils have entered a strategic partnership with Trafford Council and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) in a bid to maximise the regeneration opportunities around Old Trafford.
Officials wish to showcase how a world-class stadium can catalyse wider regeneration and bring social and economic benefits to Trafford Wharfside and the surrounding areas.
An advisory team, led by an independent director, will be appointed to support the ongoing work and ensure that it aligns with Trafford Council and the GMCA’s strategy and visions.
Findings will be fed into the recommendations of a taskforce chaired by Lord Coe.
Discussing the project, Lord Coe said: “The objective of this once-in-a-generation project is not only the development of a world-class stadium for the north of England, but also to ensure that this brings broad social and economic benefits to the local area and surrounding region.
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“There is a huge opportunity to connect Trafford Wharfside regeneration with the ongoing growth of neighbouring Media City in Salford, and Greater Manchester’s Western Gateway and Central Growth Cluster plans, to create a project of national significance.
“The tripartite advisory team will help fully unlock this incredibly exciting potential.”
Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham added: “Greater Manchester has a strong claim to be the biggest footballing city-region on the planet.
“Few places come close to matching our heritage and the global impact of our clubs and our culture.
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“The future of Old Trafford is the next chapter of that story, and we have a chance now to make sure it’s written properly.
“With this new partnership we have the expertise, the vision, and the passion to drive forward the regeneration of the Trafford Wharfside area, and deliver real benefits for the community, the fans, and for the economy across the North.”
New United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has been desperate to transform the club’s home into a “Wembley of the North” since taking over earlier this year.
The Red Devils plan to keep the current Old Trafford in some form when they eventually move.
They have considered scaling it down to a 30,000-seater stadium which then could be used for the women’s team and academy matches.
What we know about the ‘new’ Old Trafford
MANCHESTER UNITED plan to build a new stadium rather than redevelop Old Trafford.
The decision was made after a number of fact-finding missions to other stadiums including the Bernabeu and Nou Camp.
The cost of the project is expected to be a staggering £2billion.
A capacity of 100,000 is expected.
It is felt that a club of United’s standing should have a new state-of-the-art facility.
The new stadium will be built on land adjacent to the Red Devils’ current home.
United are looking to not only build a stadium but regenerate the area of Trafford where the ground will stand.
They plan to KEEP Old Trafford rather than demolish it, and use it as a second venue.
They will scale it down to a 30,000-seater that can then be used for the women’s team and academy matches.
That would mean the history remains with statues and the Munich clock and memorial plaque all most likely staying in their current positions.
The club consulted with 30,000 fans about what to do and believe there is roughly a 50-50 split on staying or moving.
Old Trafford has been United’s home since 1910.
The target is for completion by 2030.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
