The next phase of exciting plans to re-build Old Trafford stadium and redevelop the surrounding area has been launched, with residents around the stadium being asked for their views

Manchester United’s proposed regeneration of Trafford Park could boost the UK economy by up to £7.3billion. United revealed at the Labour Party conference in September details about the project, which is centred on a new 100,000-capacity stadium.

Today (Friday) details of new consultation exercise with people and businesses living near the ground was unveiled. The Old Trafford Regeneration project team is launching a survey this week ‘to ensure the views of residents and community members are at the heart of the plans to regenerate the area’, organisers have announced.

The online survey via the club’s website will be available to complete from 9am on Wednesday, November 13.

Whilst the club is concluding the initial phase of its consultation with fans, the launch of this survey is set to offer residents and community groups in Trafford and surrounding areas an opportunity ‘to provide their views and help shape the plans’.

The Old Trafford Regeneration programme is being driven by Manchester United, Trafford Council, and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) who have entered into a strategic partnership to maximise the growth and regeneration opportunities of the Trafford Wharfside area.

The community consultation process formally begins with the survey and focus group meetings – which will include speaking to community groups, businesses and local institutions. Following that work, the club will host open days at Old Trafford in December for the local community to attend and hear more about the project and provide their ideas in person.

Tom Ross, leader of Trafford Council, said: “It is critical we hear from as many residents and community members as possible during this process to ensure we can capture all their views and as we start to shape the plans for the regeneration of the area around the stadium.

“This important survey is the first stage of our wider public consultation and will be followed by focus groups and in person consultation sessions to make sure the voice of the local community is at the heart of our approach and decision-making process.”

The deadline for responses is 11:59pm on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, and organisers promises all responses will be anonymous.

Oxford Economics, who were commissioned by the club to investigate the economic feasibility of the project, have previously outlined what they believe will be its enormous impact.

The firm found the project, which is being spearheaded by billionaire Ineos chief Sir Jim Ratcliffe, could also deliver 92,000 new jobs, more than 17,000 new homes and an extra 1.8million visitors per year.

Since buying a minority stake in the club in February, which effectively put him in charge at Old Trafford, Ratcliffe has spoken of his desire to create a “Wembley of the North” upon the footprint of the club’s existing home.

Although Ratcliffe initially hinted he could pursue government assistance in order to fund the project, the prospect of using public money appeared to be ruled out by Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham.