Man Utd announce big breakthrough for 100,000-seater stadium close to Old Trafford
Manchester United have secured the majority of the land needed for their new 100,000-seater stadium, which will be built approximately 350m from Old Trafford
Man Utd have moved closer to their ‘Wembley of the north’ proposal (Image: Manchester United)
Manchester United have secured the lion’s share of the land required to construct a new 100,000-seater stadium.
The club had been negotiating with Freightliner to acquire land behind the Stretford End, but when talks hit a snag, they began exploring alternative options for land surrounding the current stadium.
United have now revealed that they’ve clinched a deal for a different plot of land situated roughly 350m north-west of the existing stadium. It’s a 25-acre triangle, approximately 350m from Old Trafford (nestled between Wharfside Way, Europa Way and John Gilbert Way).
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The land has been bought from Indurent, a prominent supplier of industrial space and a company within the Blackstone portfolio.
United now possess the majority of the land necessary for their project and will persist in their efforts to secure the remaining land, which isn’t anticipated to pose any issues.
United’s design work on the new stadium was put on hold while negotiations with Freightliner were underway. The club had been in dialogue with Freightliner for a year before contemplating other alternatives.
The club is confident that they’ve struck a fair deal to purchase land from Indurent. United can now resume their design work, with Foster + Partner poised to supervise the design of the ambitious 100,000-seater stadium, reports the Manchester Evening News.
Collette Roche, CEO, United’s new stadium development, said: “Today’s news highlights the progress we’re making towards a world-class new home for Manchester United and represents a significant milestone as we move into the next phase of development.
“Being able to build so close to Old Trafford allows us to preserve the heritage, traditions and rituals that are so important to our fans.
“We are committed to building a world-class stadium with our supporters, not just for them, with atmosphere, affordability and accessibility at the heart of our thinking.
“This is a generational opportunity that is fully aligned with both local and national growth ambitions.
“Securing the right land for our new home has been absolutely critical, and the land we’ve acquired gives us the stage to deliver a truly world-class stadium that honours our past and is ready for our future.”
United will engage directly with businesses impacted by the plans to support them through the transition period.
The Mayoral Development Corporation will publish the wider masterplan for the Old Trafford regeneration project and details on the formal consultation period on 9 July.
United have confirmed supporters will continue to be consulted during the stadium design phase.
