Manchester United has revealed the proposed location for its new £2 billion, 100,000-seat stadium, referred to as 'New Old Trafford.' The site is situated approximately 350 meters northwest of the current Old Trafford ground and will serve as the centerpiece of a new Stadium District within the wider Trafford Wharfside development.
The announcement follows the club's acquisition of a 25-acre site last month, after previously abandoning discussions to build on a freight terminal behind the Stretford End.
The new stadium is designed to be a catalyst for a project projected to create 48,000 jobs and 15,000 new homes, with an estimated annual boost of £7.3 billion to the UK economy. The plans were unveiled on Thursday at Old Trafford as part of a masterplan developed by Trafford Council in collaboration with partners including the Old Trafford Regeneration Mayoral Development Corporation, the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, and Transport for Greater Manchester.
Collette Roche, Manchester United's CEO of new stadium development, stated that the Wharfside Masterplan signifies a major step toward creating a world-class home for the club and a transformative district for Trafford and Greater Manchester. She emphasized that the proposed location allows for the preservation of heritage and traditions while providing the necessary infrastructure for a modern fan experience. Roche added that fan consultation will be central to the design process, with a focus on atmosphere, affordability, and accessibility.
Lord Sebastian Coe, chair of the Old Trafford Regeneration Mayoral Development Corporation, described the announcement as an important step in realizing the vision for Old Trafford, encompassing sport, leisure, residential, and business opportunities. He noted that the masterplan makes the transformation feel tangible.
While a design for the new stadium was presented last year by Foster + Partners, it is not considered final, and further fan input is anticipated. The future of the current Old Trafford stadium, in use for 116 years, remains undecided, though it is understood that certain elements may be integrated into the new plans.
Cllr Tom Ross, Leader of Trafford Council, expressed enthusiasm for the masterplan, highlighting its role in shaping a cultural and sporting destination. He stressed the goal of creating a vibrant area for both matchdays and everyday life, inviting residents and businesses to participate in the upcoming consultation process. The Wharfside development is envisioned as a network of neighborhoods featuring parks, waterside spaces, housing including affordable options, health and educational facilities, and improved transport links for walking and cycling.