Manchester United is facing opposition to its proposed fanzone, dubbed 'The Paddock,' from local residents living near Old Trafford. The club submitted plans last month to open a 1,300-capacity venue behind the Stretford End, intending to offer food, drink, and entertainment on matchdays.
While the club states the fanzone is a response to fan demand and will be free to enter, the proposal requires planning permission. A petition with 50 signatures has been submitted to Trafford Council, outlining residents' concerns. According to the petition, the fanzone is planned for a site just 110 meters from nearby houses and could operate for up to six additional hours on 19 to 30 occasions annually. The petition further states that 36 residential properties are within 150 meters of the proposed location, impacting families with young children, the elderly, and those working irregular shifts.
Residents expressed worries about potential noise pollution and suggested the club chose the location to avoid impacting lucrative car parking spaces, rather than considering the proximity to their homes. "They have plenty of space (elsewhere), where their additional noise would not directly impact on residents but they have chosen to locate the fan zone a short distance away," one resident was quoted as saying.
Manchester United has stated its commitment to working with residents and mitigating concerns. The club indicated that The Paddock would adhere to noise management guidelines, with further measures including sound-proofing and directing speakers away from residential areas being considered. A decision on the planning application is expected in due course.
This local opposition emerges as fans, organized by the group The 1958, are also planning a protest ahead of the upcoming Manchester derby, related to the club's recent actions regarding ticket touting.