Plans by Manchester United to extend the lifespan of a temporary car park at their Carrington training ground by three years are facing potential derailment due to terrorism threat concerns. Counter-terrorism police have evaluated the proposal and are urging the club to implement increased security measures.
The Premier League club is seeking to extend the use of a facility initially brought in for contractors during the £50 million refurbishment of the complex. Greater Manchester Police, involved in the planning application process due to the site's high profile, liaised with counter-terrorism colleagues who identified a lack of secure entry and exit points for visitors. Police have strongly recommended that the application provide suitable pedestrian access for vetting all visitors, warning of the risk of unauthorized individuals entering the site among groups of pedestrians.
In addition to security concerns, the expansion plans have drawn significant objections from local residents. The action group Friends of Carrington Moss has lodged a detailed complaint, expressing disappointment that the club did not consult with the community prior to submission. The group argues that approving the extension would increase car dependency in the area and contradicts sustainable development principles. Their objection also criticizes the club's sustainability practices and notes discrepancies in the application regarding the car park's usage dates and vegetation removal.
Mancester United has been approached for comment.