Manchester United is ready to select a master planner to oversee a massive overhaul of Old Trafford, bringing ‘exciting’ plans one step closer. While no figure has been finalized, the club is aiming for a ‘sensible uplift’ from the present 74,140 capacity.
Officials said they want to make sure the stadium is continuously full after the renovations, but it’s unlikely that anything less than 80,000 people will attend. United has received a lot of suggestions and is close to deciding on a plan for the future of the renowned stadium.
Discussing are Ongoing
They’ve met with architectural and engineering firms, and some of the prospective concepts have been hailed as ‘interesting.’ While discussions are underway and the chosen layout is being finalized, both general admission and corporate sections will be refurbished and expanded. Many parts of the ground will be improved, and new additions will be examined.
The presence of a railway line behind the South Stand has posed logistical challenges for several years. However, because of technological advancements, this is no longer an issue. United has been provided with proposals to expand that stand’s capacity, which include possibilities for going up and over the top of the adjacent line.
The club has also announced the appointment of a master designer to supervise a refurbishment of their Carrington training complex, intending to make it one of the best practice facilities in the world.
About the Final Decision
The plans will also transform the complex into a ‘fully integrated, three-group facility’ for the men’s, women’s, and academy sides, according to chief operating officer Collette Roche. United had been worried that they may have to leave Old Trafford temporarily while maintenance was being done, but they now plan to stay put.
Any renovation will be done in stages to minimize the impact on capacity, as the club has few options in the vicinity that are large enough to play home matches. There has been no final decision on money or timelines, but the club is determined to move forward, claiming that the ultimate goal is to improve the fan experience.
Planning authorization will be required for the final design. In the face of angry supporters who thought the stadium was being neglected under their watch, United’s owners, the Glazer family, committed to investing in it.
Read: Manchester United will have €75 million for winter transfer window
