The future of Old Trafford has been a contentious talking point throughout the summer, with the prospect of a new 100,000-seater stadium to be built adjacent to the existing ground.
While the idea of a makeover to the Theatre of Dreams is also under consideration, the benefits of regeneration opportunities in the Old Trafford Wharfside area remain an advantageous talking point.
Per Manchester United’s official website, a strategic partnership consisting of the club, the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA), and the Trafford Council aim to maximise the growth and revitalisation of the area.
According to this morning’s statement, “An advisory team, led by an independent director, will be appointed to support the ongoing work to develop an ambitious vision for the area around Old Trafford, with a focus on how a world-class stadium can catalyse wider regeneration, bringing social and economic benefits to all of Trafford and the surrounding city region.”
This team will align their interests with the existing master planning process alongside the work of the highly-publicised task force – created to explore the best options regarding the renovation or rebuilding of the stadium.
Notably, this advisory team will provide continuous support regarding project management and technical details and supply critical recommendations regarding the final decision.
A Wembley of the North
Lord Sebastian Coe is the chair of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s task force and responsible for collecting relevant information regarding United’s home since 1910.
“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,” he told the club’s website.
Sir Jim is keen to create a ‘Wembley of the North’ and believes the region more than merits the infrastructure.
A new stadium is expected to take six years to complete, with a deadline for a decision set for the end of the year.
Although the investigation into the most practical solution is ongoing, many suggest a new ground is the current preference for all involved.
The Manchester United Supporters Trust (M.U.S.T) are included in the conversation regarding this mammoth decision, with key board members offering their opinions.
Chris Rumfitt was recently a guest on the Theatre of Red Podcast and has been in direct dialogue with the committee.
“The assurances I have had from the task force is that no such decision has been made or taken – and we are still a little way from that,” he told Shaun Connolly.
“I think the most important thing is that there’s a proper engagement with fans, and I don’t think it is possible for us to come down and say it should be a new stadium, or it shouldn’t be a new stadium.
“We don’t have – at this stage, and fans don’t have, all of the facts at their disposal to make that decision.”
We know the group has ambitious plans – including housing development, retail opportunities and better connections between Trafford Wharfside, Salford and Manchester city centre.
Regardless, the debate regarding the iconic ground continues, with supporters split on the best outcome for their beloved Manchester United.
Let us know your feelings in the comments or across our social channels.
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