MANCHESTER UNITED have appointed a world-renowned architecture group to design a new stadium for the Old Trafford area.
Foster + Partners will be tasked with developing a “masterplan” for the club-owned land.
Officials want to build a “world-class football destination and home” for Man Utd fans.
They also wish to incorporate a wider plan comprising mixed-use developments that will benefit the local community, attract new residents, increase job provision, and make it a vibrant destination for visitors both from the UK and across the world.
United have promised to remain engaged with fans, community members, local authorities and the Old Trafford Regeneration Task Force throughout the process.
The design of the actual stadium, which will sit at the heart of the area, will be completed when wider plans are determined.
Discussing the new partnership, Lord Foster, founder and executive chairman of Foster + Partners, said: “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.”
Lord Foster is already involved with the £50million refurbishment of Man Utd’s Carrington training complex.
Foster + Partners assisted with the development of Wembley Stadium in London, widely regarded as the home of English football.
The company also helped to develop the Lusail Stadium, which hosted the final of the 2022 Qatar World Cup.
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New United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has been desperate to transform the club’s home into a “Wembley of the North” since taking over at the start of this year.
Collette Roche, the club’s chief operating officer, said: “We have a clear vision to transform and revitalise the club-owned land around 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.
“We want this area to become a true destination, that not only provides an unbeatable matchday experience for our fans, but also supports other forms of entertainment, leisure, business and residential facilities surrounding a world-class stadium.
“Lord Foster has unrivalled experience in delivering projects of this scale and ambition.”
