Manchester United's plans to build a “Wembley of the North” have been backed by the UK government.
New co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has not made a secret of his desire to improve United's stadium, whether that be refurbishing Old Trafford or building a huge new ground, with plans also revolving around investment in the area surrounding the stadium.
united believe their plans could generate an extra £7.3 billion a year for the UK economy, and chancellor Rachel Reeves announced she would “champion” the project, which she described as a “shining example of bold pro- development that will drive growth around the world”.
The proposal would require funding from the UK government when it comes to the local area, such as investment in transport, while United would be responsible for all costs associated with the stadium itself, whose capacity it can be up to 100,000making it the largest sports bar in the country.
“The delivery of a world-class stadium could be the catalyst for major regeneration of an area of Greater Manchester that requires new investment to thrive again,” United CEO Omar Berrada said in response to Reeves.
“We cannot achieve this wider aim on our own, so we welcome the Chancellor's announcement and the continued support of the Mayor of Greater Manchester and Trafford Council. If we work together, there is a 'once in a lifetime' opportunity to to create a historic project around Old Trafford that the whole region can be proud of.”