Manchester United welcome plans to regenerate area around Old Trafford

Manchester United have described plans to regenerate the Wharfside area around Old Trafford as “tremendously exciting”, with the club viewing this development as potentially having synergy with their own plans regarding the stadium.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the incoming 25% owner, is intent on either building a new ground for United on the same land or revamping the current site. The plans to regenerate the wider area, a Trafford Council initiative, were backed by Collette Roche, United’s chief operating officer. “This vision for Trafford Wharfside is tremendously exciting and we are proud to be supporting Trafford Council with their ambitious plans for an area with such huge potential,” she said.

“We will continue to work closely with the council, and other local stakeholders, on how any future development work at Old Trafford can complement their vision and, most importantly, benefit the local community.”

The vision is for five districts, one of which would be the Stadium District, described in the council statement as the “Manchester United area”. Liz Patel, the council’s executive member for economy and regeneration, said: “The Trafford Wharfside master plan offers a regeneration vision for a hugely important area within Trafford. This area takes in the world-famous sporting institution that is Manchester United as well as other major sites including the Imperial War Museum and the Manchester Ship Canal.

“Working with our partners and private developers, we will be looking to create new homes, new neighbourhoods and help create a world-class setting for the Manchester United stadium.”