Manchester United, in partnership with Trafford Council and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA), is looking for an independent director to oversee a strategic initiative aimed at regenerating the Trafford Wharfside area, which will feature a world-class stadium.
The appointed director and advisory team will ensure alignment with the existing Trafford Wharfside masterplanning process and the Old Trafford Regeneration Task Force’s efforts. This task force, established in March, includes local leaders and national experts who are exploring options for a new or redeveloped stadium for Manchester United.
The task force is composed of figures such as Andy Burnham, Gary Neville, and senior representatives from the business and civic community in Greater Manchester, including landowner Peel. It also includes the Manchester United Supporters Trust, whose chair Duncan Drasdo is known for his criticism of the Glazer family ownership. The advisory team will provide technical and project management support to the involved parties while also delivering crucial guidance to shape the final recommendations of the regeneration task force.
Lord Sebastian Coe, chair of the task force, commented: “The objective of this once-in-a-generation project is not only the development of a world-class stadium for the north of England, but also to ensure that this brings broad social and economic benefits to the local area and surrounding region. There is a huge opportunity to connect Trafford Wharfside regeneration with the ongoing growth of neighbouring Media City in Salford, 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, stated: “Greater Manchester has a strong claim to be the biggest footballing city-region on the planet. Few places come close to matching our heritage and the global impact of our clubs and our culture. The future of Old Trafford is the next chapter of that story, and we have a chance now to make sure it’s written properly. 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.”
Councillor Liz Patel, Executive Member for Economy and Regeneration at Trafford Council, added: “We have ambitious regeneration plans for the Trafford Wharfside area. Our plan is for up to 5,000 new homes in the area, new opportunities for retail space and better connections between Trafford Wharfside, Salford and Manchester city centre. This transformational change will make it the perfect visitor destination for new businesses to invest in. 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.”
The collaboration between Manchester United, Trafford Council, and GMCA marks a significant step towards revitalising the Trafford Wharfside area. With the shared vision of constructing a world-class stadium and promoting broad social and economic benefits, this project aims to reshape the community and enhance its attractiveness for both residents and businesses.