Manchester United secure land for new 100,000-seater stadium near Old Trafford

Club hails ‘significant milestone as we move into the next phase of development’

Manchester United have secured the bulk of the land required to construct a new 100,000-seater stadium. The club had been in negotiations with Freightliner to obtain land behind the Stretford End, however talks had ground to a halt, prompting United to explore alternative options for land surrounding the existing ground.

United have now confirmed they have reached an agreement on a separate plot of land situated roughly 350m north-west of the current stadium. The site is a 25-acre triangular plot, approximately 350m from Old Trafford (positioned between Wharfside Way, Europa Way and John Gilbert Way).

The land has been acquired from Indurent, a prominent provider of industrial space and a Blackstone portfolio company. United now hold the majority of the land required for the project and will press ahead with efforts to obtain the remaining parcels.

Design work on the new stadium had been put on hold while negotiations with Freightliner were ongoing. The club had spent a year in discussions with Freightliner before turning its attention to other options.

United believe they have secured a fair agreement in purchasing the land from Indurent. The club can now push forward with its design work, with Foster + Partners set to lead the design process for the ambitious 100,000-seater stadium, reports the Manchester Evening News.

Collette Roche, CEO, United’s new stadium development, said: “Today’s news highlights the progress we’re making towards a world-class new home for Manchester United and represents a significant milestone as we move into the next phase of development.

“Being able to build so close to Old Trafford allows us to preserve the heritage, traditions and rituals that are so important to our fans. We are committed to building a world-class stadium with our supporters, not just for them, with atmosphere, affordability and accessibility at the heart of our thinking.

“This is a generational opportunity that is fully aligned with both local and national growth ambitions. Securing the right land for our new home has been absolutely critical, and the land we’ve acquired gives us the stage to deliver a truly world-class stadium that honours our past and is ready for our future.”

United have pledged to work directly with businesses affected by the proposals to help guide them through the transitional period. The Mayoral Development Corporation is set to release the broader masterplan for the Old Trafford regeneration scheme, alongside details of the formal consultation period, on 9 July.

The club has confirmed that supporters will continue to be involved throughout the stadium design process.