Great Manchester (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Manchester United, the Trafford Council, and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) have agreed to form a strategic partnership to advance the growth and regeneration opportunities of the Trafford Wharfside zone through the Old Trafford Project.
An advisory team, headed by an independent director, will be assigned to support the ongoing work to develop an ambitious plan for the area around Old Trafford, with an emphasis on how a world-class stadium can catalyze wider regeneration, bringing social and economic advantage all of Trafford and the surrounding city region.
How Will the Old Trafford Project Shape the Future of Trafford Wharfside?
The advisory team’s conclusions will feed into the Old Trafford task force, which is chaired by Lord Sebastian Coe, and includes the mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham. The mayor of Greater Manchester said: “Greater Manchester has a strong declaration to be the biggest footballing city region on the planet. Few places come close to matching our heritage and the global impact of our clubs and our culture.
“The future of Old Trafford is the next chapter of that story, and we have an opportunity now to make sure it’s written properly. With this new collaboration, we have the expertise, the vision, and the passion to drive ahead the regeneration of the Trafford Wharfside area, and deliver tangible benefits for the community, the fans, and for the economy across the North.”
What Are the Goals of the Strategic Partnership for Old Trafford Regeneration?
Lord Coe, Chair of the Task Force, stated, “The purpose of this once-in-a-generation project is not only the product of a world-class stadium for the north of England but also to assure that this brings broad social and economic advantages to the local area and surrounding region.”
The designated director and advisory team will ensure alignment with the current Trafford Wharfside master planning process and the work of the Old Trafford Regeneration Task Force, the group of local leaders and national experts formed in March to investigate options for a fresh or redeveloped stadium at the home of Manchester United.
Technical and project management backing will be delivered by the advisory team to Trafford Council, GMCA and Manchester United as planning work strengthens, with the group also delivering critical guidance to inform the final recommendations of the Old Trafford Regeneration Task Force.