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Manchester United have officially confirmed the appointment of Forster+Partners to develop a masterplan for Old Trafford and the club-owned land surrounding the stadium.
United issued a statement relaying that the “world-renowned global architecture studio” will be tasked with the responsibility of delivering a plan that could ensure they’re eventually handed the job of designing a new world-class arena for the club.
Last month, a report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that Sir Norman Foster, a celebrated British architect and a close friend of Sir Jim Ratcliffe, could be the man charged with designing a new Old Trafford and transforming the surrounding area.
The award-winning man oversaw not only oversaw the construction of Wembley but also the renovation of Germany’s Reichstag.
United now state that Foster + Partners’ focus will be to come up with plans for a “world-class football destination and home for United fans.”
The firm will additionally create an expansive masterplan featuring mixed-use developments that will benefit the local community, draw in new residents, boost employment opportunities, and transform the area into a lively destination for visitors from Manchester, the UK, and beyond.
Lord Foster, Founder and Executive Chairman of Foster + Partners, said, “As a proud Mancunian, I am passionate about the chance to rebuild on 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.”
United Chief Operating Officer Collete Roche remarked, “We have a clear vision to transform and revitalise the club-owned land around Old Trafford and we know that Foster + Partners is the best partner to help us develop the plans.”
“This is an area of Greater Manchester ready for major new investment so that it can thrive once more, and we are determined to help deliver those outcomes.”
“We want this area to become a true destination, that not only provides an unbeatable matchday experience for our fans, but also supports other forms of entertainment, leisure, business and residential facilities surrounding a world-class stadium.”
” Lord Foster has unrivalled experience in delivering projects of this scale and ambition.”
United are currently in the middle of substantial engagements with supporters, community members, local authorities and the Old Trafford Regeneration Task Force.
It’s understood that the feedback received from all these parties will be taken into account when drawing up the masterplan.
A recent report covered by The Peoples Person confirmed that a final decision on Old Trafford – whether to refurbish it or construct an entirely new arena – is expected before the turn of the year.
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