Manchester United has appointed the prestigious architecture firm Foster + Partners to develop a masterplan for the regeneration of the district surrounding Old Trafford Stadium. This project aims to revitalize the areas around their iconic stadium and could involve either modernizing the current Old Trafford or building a new stadium on adjacent land owned by the club. The project is part of a broader urban development vision aimed at attracting new residents, increasing employment, and transforming the area into a vibrant destination for both locals and visitors.
The club’s co-owner, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, favors the construction of a new stadium with a capacity of 100,000 people, a proposal that has been central to discussions within the Old Trafford Regeneration Task Force. Meanwhile, Foster + Partners is already working on modernizing the Carrington Training Complex, a £50 million project that underscores their strong relationship with the club.
[Follow SportsIn on Instagram for more stories!]
As for the stadium, Manchester United has stated that its design will begin once development options have been decided. However, they have assured that a world-class stadium will be a key element of this ambitious masterplan, aiming to create a modern home for the team’s supporters and infrastructure that drives the area’s regeneration.
Additionally, Foster + Partners, in collaboration with local authorities and the community, will develop the masterplan incorporating feedback from residents, fans, and the Regeneration Task Force. The project also seeks to align with the existing Trafford Wharfside masterplan and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority’s regional goals.
Collette Roche, Manchester United’s Chief Operating Officer, emphasized that the vision is to transform the area into a true destination, offering exceptional experiences not only on match days but also through entertainment, business, and residential facilities. Foster + Partners’ expertise will be essential to achieving this ambitious project, which aims to reinvigorate this historic area.
