Manchester United have announced ambitious plans to construct a new stadium with a capacity of 100,000, opting against any redevelopment of Old Trafford.
This new venue is set to be located on land owned by the club adjacent to Old Trafford, which has been their home for the past 115 years.
The project will be spearheaded by the London-based architecture firm Foster + Partners, with estimated costs reaching up to £2 billion.
“Today marks the beginning of an incredibly exciting journey towards creating what we aspire will be the world’s greatest football stadium, right at the heart of a revitalised Old Trafford,” stated United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
“While our current stadium has served us exceptionally well over the last 115 years, it is no longer on par with the finest arenas in global sport.
“By developing next to the existing location, we aim to maintain the spirit of Old Trafford while constructing a state-of-the-art stadium that enhances the fan experience just steps away from our historic grounds.
“Equally important is the potential for a new stadium to drive social and economic revitalisation in the Old Trafford area, generating jobs and investment not just during the construction phase but also on a sustainable basis once the stadium district is complete.
“The government has recognised infrastructure investment as a strategic priority, especially in northern England, and we are pleased to support this mission through our project of both national and local importance.”
The new stadium will be a key component of a broader regeneration initiative around Old Trafford, with Manchester United claiming it could contribute an impressive £7.3 billion annually to the UK economy.
According to the club, the development has the potential to create 92,000 jobs and 17,000 new homes, in addition to attracting 1.8 million visitors to the area each year.
United chief executive Omar Berrada added: “Our long-term aim is to have the world’s best football team playing in the world’s finest stadium. We appreciate the feasibility studies conducted by the Old Trafford Regeneration Task Force, which explored various options for the future of Old Trafford.
“We have meticulously evaluated its findings alongside feedback from thousands of fans and local residents, ultimately concluding that a new stadium represents the best path forward for Manchester United and our wider community.
“We will now initiate further consultations to ensure that the voices of fans and residents continue to be heard as we approach final decisions.”
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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