United's plan to transform Old Trafford boosted as council launches 'masterplan'

Manchester United's plans to transform Old Trafford have taken a step forward after council bosses announced proposals to regenerate the area surrounding the stadium.

Trafford Council have launched a 'Trafford Wharfside masterplan' which they say offers a vision for the area 'as a key emerging neighbourhood'.

The plans have been drawn up in partnership with United, landowners Peel and covers an area Mail Sport reported will form part of a vast regeneration project that could include a new, 90,000-capacity Old Trafford.

While the proposals have been drafted by the council, the move is a clear indication of the speed in which Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his INEOS group want to progress. Their 25 per cent stake in the club is set to be officially rubber-stamped next week.

A number of development sites have been identified as part of a vision council bosses say will have 'nature and landscape at the heart of its vision'. It stretches from Old Trafford to the Manchester Ship Canal and would link the area with BBC HQ MediaCity, across the water.

The sites have been split into different areas with Old Traddord part of a 'Stadium District'. Others include Trafford Wharf, Heritage Quarter, Innovation Quarter and Wharfside Heart.

Collette Roche, chief operating officer at United, said: 'This vision for Trafford Wharfside is tremendously exciting and we are proud to be supporting Trafford Council with their ambitious plans for an area with such huge potential.

'We will continue to work closely with the council, and other local stakeholders, on how any future development work at Old Trafford can complement their vision and, most importantly, benefit the local community.'