United Provide Exciting Update On Old Trafford Stadium Project
Manchester United have announced a new strategic partnership with local authorities to integrate future plans for Old Trafford with the wider redevelopment of the surrounding region.
On Monday, United revealed its collaboration with Trafford Council and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) to either revamp Old Trafford or build a new stadium entirely.
A dedicated advisory team, along with an independent director, will be brought in to oversee the alignment of the Old Trafford project with Trafford Council’s masterplan for the Trafford Wharfside area, as well as GMCA’s broader growth strategy.
The advisory group’s recommendations will contribute to the efforts of the Old Trafford task force.
The joint vision of United and local authorities is to position the future of Old Trafford at the core of Wharfside regeneration plans, using the stadium as a driving force for revitalizing the area.
Lord Coe, chairing the task force, stated:
“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.
“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.”
The redevelopment of Old Trafford has become a key focus for INEOS, which secured a 25% stake in Manchester United in February.
Although relocating from Old Trafford is not under consideration due to the club’s rich history at the site, both the renovation of the current stadium and the construction of a new venue on adjacent club-owned land are potential options.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe has expressed a preference for building a new stadium rather than redeveloping the existing structure.
A primary area of focus for the task force will be securing the necessary funding for the project. Various private financial sources are set to be considered, as the construction of a new stadium, or an extensive redevelopment plan, is likely to require additional partners to cover the costs.
In March, the mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, acknowledged that public funds might also be needed, labelling the initiative as “the biggest regeneration project in the north of England.”
He elaborated, saying:
“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.
“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.”