Manchester United stadium to become Trafford Wharfside’s regen anchor

Manchester United has joined forced with Trafford Council and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority to explore the ways in which its stadium could catalyse the wider regeneration of the Trafford Wharfside area. The advisory team, which will be led by an independent director, will support the work of the Trafford Wharfside masterplanning process and the Old Trafford Regeneration Task Force – a group set up in March to explore options for a new or redeveloped stadium. Trafford Wharfside regeneration is set to deliver up to 5,000 new homes in the area, new opportunities for retail space and better connect the area with Salford and Manchester city centre. Sebastian Coe, chair of the Old Trafford Regeneration Task Force, said: “There is an opportunity to connect Trafford Wharfside regeneration with the ongoing growth of neighbouring Media City and Greater Manchester’s Western Gateway and Central Growth Cluster plans, to create a project of national significance. The tripartite advisory team will help fully unlock this incredibly exciting potential.” Andy Burnham, mayor of Greater Manchester, said: “With this new partnership we have the expertise, the vision and the passion to drive forward the regeneration of the Trafford Wharfside area and deliver real benefits for the community, the fans and for the economy across the North.” Liz Patel, executive member for economy and regeneration at Trafford Council, added: “We want Trafford Wharfside to be nationally recognised as a place which is dynamic and attractive for residents and businesses, so I look forward to working closely with our partners and local residents to realise our shared goal of transforming the area for everyone.”