MANCHESTER UNITED have received a boost in their bid to build a new Old Trafford and transform the surrounding area.
Last month, United revealed images of the 100,000-seater super ground they are planning to build near their current home.
But the Red Devils also have big plans for the Old Trafford area ahead of building their new home, which they hope will be up and running in five years.
According to Manchester Evening News, the Manchester giants are planning to transform and regenerate a sprawling area of land around Old Trafford.
And that is why Trafford Council have appointed a consortium to design a strategic masterplan.
The council announced on Wednesday the consortium, led by architects Allies and Morrison, will "carry out its plan to revitalise Trafford Wharfside, leading to thousands of new homes and jobs in the area".
There are plans for a new "processional route" to the stadium - north along Sir Matt Busby Way - and a major new "world-class public space" around the stadium.
A new public park is also being prepared, while a new primary school could be built.
And the waters of the Manchester Ship Canal will provide a backdrop for a new community of homes, attractions, leisure and business.
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A spokesperson said: "It will work with Trafford Council alongside Manchester United Football Club, the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA), a proposed Mayoral Development Corporation and other key partners to deliver a transformational and sustainable international destination for the benefit of residents, businesses and visitors.
"The masterplan is aimed to be completed early next year."
Man Utd's new stadium has been met with mixed reaction as initial images have left some fans - as well as legends like Ryan Giggs - less than enthused.
And it has been claimed United could cut the cost of building the new ground by £300MILLION if they made some changes to the original plans.