Manchester United's plans for a new 100,000-seat stadium have received backing from the government, with Chancellor Rachel Reeves championing the project as part of a major regeneration of Trafford Park that could boost the UK economy by £7.3bn.
A shining example of bold development
The UK Treasury has described United's plans as a "shining example of the bold pro-development model that will drive growth across the region". The Old Trafford Regeneration Task Force has claimed their plans would provide over 90,000 employment opportunities.
Regeneration of Trafford Park
The proposed Trafford Park complex would feature a major transport hub, along with premises dedicated to sports, residential, entertainment, business and an education campus. United are working with Trafford Council and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority on the plans.
Club CEO welcomes announcement
United CEO Richard Arnold said: "We welcome the announcement by the Chancellor and the ongoing support of the Mayor of Greater Manchester and Trafford Council. If we work together, there is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create a landmark project around Old Trafford that the whole region can be proud of."
Decision to be made ahead of the summer
While increasing the current capacity of Old Trafford to 87,000 is an option, building an entirely new ground would allow them to welcome 100,000 fans. A final decision is to be made ahead of the summer.
The new stadium would be the largest club ground in the UK, surpassing the current capacity of Old Trafford which is 74,140. It would also be the second-largest stadium in the Premier League behind Wembley.
Old Trafford's rich history
United have played at Old Trafford for 111 years, with the stadium opening in 1910. The ground has undergone several renovations over the years, most recently in 2006 when the quadrants were filled in to create a 76,000 capacity.
