Manchester United has unveiled intentions to construct a new stadium with a capacity of 100,000 seats, opting against the redevelopment of Old Trafford.
The proposed venue is set to be located on land owned by the club, adjacent to Old Trafford – the home of Manchester United for the past 115 years.
Foster + Partners, a London-based architecture firm, has been appointed to spearhead the project, which is projected to cost as much as £2 billion.
“Today marks the commencement of an incredibly thrilling journey towards delivering what will become the world’s finest football stadium, right in the heart of a revitalised Old Trafford,” commented United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
“Our current stadium has served us exceptionally well for over a century, yet it has not kept pace with the premier venues in global sport.
“By constructing next to the existing site, we can maintain the spirit of Old Trafford while developing a cutting-edge stadium that enhances the fan experience just a stone’s throw from our historic grounds.
“Equally important is the potential for the new stadium to spark social and economic revitalisation in the Old Trafford area, creating employment and investment opportunities not only throughout the construction phase but also long-lasting benefits once the stadium district is realised.
“The government has pinpointed infrastructure investment as a key strategic priority, especially in the north of England, and we are proud to play our part in that mission with this project, which holds significance both locally and nationally.”
The new stadium will be integrated into a comprehensive regeneration initiative around Old Trafford, with the club estimating it has the ability to contribute £7.3 billion annually to the UK economy.
Furthermore, the club anticipates that it could generate 92,000 new jobs and 17,000 additional homes, along with attracting 1.8 million visitors to the area each year.
United’s chief executive, Omar Berrada, stated: “Our long-term goal as a club is to have the world’s top football team playing in the world’s best stadium. We appreciate the feasibility studies conducted by the Old Trafford Regeneration Task Force that examined future options for Old Trafford.
“We have thoroughly evaluated its findings and listened to the opinions of thousands of fans and local residents, ultimately concluding that a new stadium is the best path forward for Manchester United and our surrounding community.
“We will initiate further consultation to ensure that fans and residents’ voices are heard as we progress towards final decisions.”
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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