Manchester United has taken a significant step towards its ambitious regeneration project by appointing globally acclaimed architects Foster + Partners to develop a master plan for the area surrounding Old Trafford. Known for their impressive portfolio of iconic sports projects, including the Lusail Stadium in Qatar (host of the 2022 FIFA World Cup final) and Wembley Stadium (host of the Euro 2020 final), Foster + Partners is poised to bring their expertise to this pivotal project.
The club is currently evaluating two options: a complete redevelopment of the nation’s largest club stadium or the construction of a brand new stadium on adjacent land owned by the club. Co-owner Jim Ratcliffe has publicly expressed his support for a new stadium, and the Old Trafford Regeneration Task Force has reportedly focused its discussions on building a 100,000-capacity stadium rather than revamping the existing one. This bold vision reflects a desire to create a stadium befitting Manchester United’s global stature.
Adding to the project’s scope, Foster + Partners is already overseeing a £50 million ($66 million) modernization of United’s Carrington Training Complex. Norman Foster, founder and executive chairman of Foster + Partners, is a renowned figure in the world of architecture, having designed some of the world’s most iconic buildings, including the HSBC Building in Hong Kong, London’s “Gherkin” skyscraper, and the reconstructed Reichstag in Berlin. His passion for this project is evident in his statement: “As a proud Mancunian, I am passionate about the chance to rebuild Manchester’s great industrial heritage, creating a vibrant new mixed-use community, served by highly sustainable and improved transport links, providing homes and jobs for the local community, all catalysed by a world-class stadium for the world’s most famous football team — Manchester United.”
Manchester United’s Chief Operating Officer Collette Roche echoed this sentiment, stating: “Lord Foster has unrivalled experience in delivering projects of this scale and ambition.” A new stadium is estimated to cost around £2 billion, and the task force is expected to present its final recommendations by the end of the year. To ensure fan involvement in this transformative project, the club is actively seeking feedback from supporters. Former United captain Gary Neville, a member of the task force, has encouraged fans to participate in this important process.
This ambitious regeneration project has the potential to reshape the landscape of Manchester, creating a vibrant hub that combines world-class sports facilities with a thriving community. The project’s commitment to sustainability, improved transport links, and new homes and jobs reinforces its potential for positive impact on the city.
