Sir Jim Ratcliffe's vision for a new Manchester United stadium that could double as a 'Wembley of the North' has received approval from Trafford Council. The co-owner of the club has outlined his preference to replace Old Trafford with a new ground that could serve as a national venue, as part of the council's broader plans to regenerate the Trafford Wharf area.
Councillor Liz Patel, leading the council's redevelopment plans, welcomed the proposal, calling it 'wonderful' and stating it matches the ambition for the area's future. She noted that a new stadium built on adjacent land could cost around £2 billion, but emphasised that the club would be responsible for funding its own stadium project, while the council would seek investment for the wider Wharfside plans.
The club's plans are a key element of Trafford Council's Wharfside Development masterplan, which will be subject to public consultation next week. The council highlighted recent stadium developments at Tottenham, Everton, and Manchester City as good examples of regeneration and fan engagement.
Sir Jim told BBC sports editor Dan Roan that the current 74,310-capacity Old Trafford had become 'tired and in need of refurbishment'. He indicated that a new stadium with national capabilities would require a 'conversation' with the government regarding potential taxpayer funding.
At a council executive meeting on Monday night, Ms Patel earned cross-party support for the regeneration plans, which could take up to 20 years to fully realise. She confirmed that the council has worked with Manchester United's planning team to design improvements for fans, including safer processional routes from tram stops and the city centre.
