Manchester United is deciding whether to go ahead with a £2 billion plan to build a new 100,000-seater stadium or upgrade their current 74,000-capacity Old Trafford. According to a study ordered by the club, the redevelopment of the area surrounding Old Trafford could contribute £7.3 billion ($9.7 billion) to the British economy every year.
Stadium Options: New Build or Redevelopment
The club is weighing two major options: either construct a brand-new stadium with a 100,000-seat capacity or renovate Old Trafford. Both projects would significantly impact the local economy and the club’s future.
However, Andy Burnham, the mayor of Greater Manchester, made it clear on Monday that no public funds would be used for the project.
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A Larger Vision for the Area
Burnham supports redeveloping the stadium along with plans for a new neighborhood that would include apartments, shopping areas, and improved public transportation. This broader regeneration project, according to global consulting firm Oxford Economics, could create 92,000 new jobs, provide over 17,000 new homes, and attract 1.8 million more visitors to the area annually.
“This could be the biggest regeneration project I’ve ever seen in this country,” said Burnham. “We want it to become the best football stadium in the world and to benefit the people living nearby.”
Major Players Behind the Plan
British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe, a co-owner of Manchester United who recently acquired a minority stake in the club, is leading the project. Though he previously hinted at possibly seeking government help to fund a “Wembley of the North,” it now seems that plan has been scrapped.
Last week, United hired the world-renowned architects Foster + Partners to develop the designs for the project. Fans are being encouraged to share their opinions, with former United captain Gary Neville, who is part of the Old Trafford Regeneration Task Force, calling on supporters to participate.
This redevelopment project could transform both Manchester United and its surrounding community, bringing new jobs, homes, and visitors, while aiming to build one of the world’s best football stadiums.
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