Manchester United has appointed the renowned architecture firm Foster + Partners to develop a masterplan for the transformation of the area around its iconic Manchester United Stadium, Old Trafford, in Manchester, UK. The goal is to establish a “world-class football destination,” with the masterplan serving as a precursor to potential stadium redevelopment. The club aims to enhance the surrounding site, making it a vibrant hub for the community and fans alike.
A Vision for Transformation
Norman Foster, the founder of Foster + Partners and a proud Mancunian, expressed his enthusiasm for the project: “As a proud Mancunian, I am passionate about the chance to rebuild on Manchester’s great industrial heritage, creating a vibrant new mixed-use community, served by highly sustainable and improved transport links, providing homes and jobs for the local community, all catalysed by a world-class stadium for the world’s most famous football team – Manchester United.”
Focus on Community and Sustainability
The masterplan will focus on approximately 100 acres of land around Manchester United Stadium, west of Manchester, much of which is currently occupied by car parks and warehouses. The development aims to create a mixed-use environment that benefits the local community by attracting new residents, increasing job opportunities, and improving transport links. The vision is to create a vibrant destination that offers not just an unbeatable matchday experience, but also a variety of entertainment, leisure, business, and residential facilities.
Central Role of the Manchester United Stadium
Manchester United Stadium, also known as Old Trafford, has been the home of Manchester United since 1910 and will remain the focal point of the redevelopment. The stadium, currently the largest in the Premier League with a capacity of 74,310, will either be revamped or replaced with a new venue, depending on the final masterplan. The decision will be made following the completion of the masterplan, which will guide the development process.
Long-Term Commitment to Local Regeneration
Manchester United’s chief operating officer, Collette Roche, emphasized the club’s commitment to the local area: “We have a clear vision to transform and revitalize the club-owned land around Manchester United Stadium, Old Trafford, and we know that Foster + Partners is the best partner to help us develop the plans. This is an area of Greater Manchester ready for major new investment so that it can thrive once more, and we are determined to help deliver those outcomes.”
The redevelopment of the Manchester United Stadium area represents a significant investment in the future of both Manchester United and the local community. The project aims to honor the city’s industrial heritage while providing modern amenities and infrastructure to support a thriving mixed-use community centered around a world-class football venue.
Photos: HonorTheKing
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