Regeneration Initiative for Old Trafford Supported by Manchester Authorities

Synopsis

Manchester United, in collaboration with Trafford Council and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, is planning a significant regeneration project for Old Trafford, highlighting a new world-class stadium as a core element aimed at boosting local economy and job creation.

Key Takeaways

Manchester United partners with Trafford Council for Old Trafford regeneration.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves endorses the project for economic growth.
Public support crucial for wider benefits, including transport and housing.
Potential to add £7.3 billion to the UK economy and create 90,000 jobs.
Two stadium options: refurbish to 87,000 or build new for 100,000 capacity.

Manchester, Jan 26 (NationPress) Manchester United is collaborating with Trafford Council and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority to create plans for revitalizing the Old Trafford area, centered around the construction of a world-class stadium for Manchester United.

In a recent statement, the UK Treasury highlighted that Rachel Reeves, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, is promoting the Old Trafford project as "a shining example" of the government’s strategy to stimulate economic growth.

While Manchester United will oversee the development of the stadium, public sector support will be essential to realize broader regeneration opportunities, including enhancements to transport infrastructure and housing.

"If we collaborate, there is a rare chance to establish a landmark project around Old Trafford that the entire region can take pride in. The construction of a world-class stadium can serve as the impetus for significant regeneration in a part of Greater Manchester that needs fresh investment to flourish once more.

"We cannot achieve that broader goal independently, which is why we appreciate the Chancellor's announcement and the continuous backing of the Mayor of Greater Manchester and Trafford Council. Together, we can seize this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create a landmark project around Old Trafford that the entire area can be proud of," stated Omar Berrada, CEO of Manchester United.

Recently, the Old Trafford Regeneration Task Force unveiled an initial options report, revealing that the project could contribute an additional £7.3 billion in gross value added to the UK economy and generate over 90,000 jobs.

The Task Force established that a revamped Old Trafford could enhance the current stadium capacity to 87,000, while a new stadium would permit a capacity of 100,000. Both alternatives are under evaluation, with the club expected to announce a preferred plan before summer.

"The initiative surrounding Old Trafford signifies the most significant opportunity for urban regeneration this nation has witnessed since London 2012 and is a pivotal element of our 10-year plan to accelerate growth throughout Greater Manchester. We anticipate collaborating with the Government to relocate freight away from the Old Trafford site to new areas, thereby expanding capacity for our rail network and unlocking extensive regeneration potential, benefiting the entire North," remarked Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester.

In the upcoming week, Trafford Council and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority will deliberate the advantages of establishing a Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC) to advance the project.