Manchester United’s plans to build a ‘Wembley of the North’ have been backed by the British government.
New co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has made no secret of his desire to improve United’s stadium, be it redeveloping Old Trafford or building a huge new stadium. The plans also revolve around investments in the surrounding area of the stadium.
United believes its plans could generate an extra £7.3 billion a year for the UK economy and Chancellor Rachel Reeves said she would champion the project, which she described as a “shining example of the bold pro-development model that is “will drive growth,” said the region.
The proposal would require funding from the UK government when it comes to the region, such as investment in transport, while United would be responsible for any expenses related to the stadium itself, whose capacity could be up to 100,000 spectators, making it the largest sporting venue of the country.
“The construction of a world-class stadium can be the catalyst for a major regeneration of an area of Greater Manchester that requires new investment to thrive again,” United CEO Omar Berrada said in response to Reeves.
“We cannot achieve this wider goal alone, so we welcome the Chancellor’s announcement and the continued support of the Mayor of Greater Manchester and Trafford Council. When we work together there is something that only comes once in a lifetime. “Opportunity to create a landmark project around Old Trafford that the whole region can be proud of.”