Source:REUTERS/Peter Powell
[Saba Sports News] According to British media reports, Manchester United hopes to submit planning applications for the new Old Trafford stadium within the next 12 to 18 months. Club officials are confident of breaking the deadlock over a nearby freight terminal this summer, which is central to the massive project, thus paving the way for the construction of a 100,000-seat “Wembley of the North”. Discussions have been held between the club’s senior management and major construction companies capable of undertaking the challenging task of building a futuristic home ground for the Premier League giants. The aim is to ensure that Manchester United can start construction promptly once planning permission is approved. United has been locked in a deadlock with Freightliner over the acquisition of its large freight terminal located behind the Stretford End. Earlier reports suggested the two sides were deeply divided over valuation, with the possibility of a compulsory purchase order even being mentioned. Sources have revealed that negotiations are currently underway with multiple parties regarding land options and subsequent progress.
The editor believes that James Ratcliffe unveiled the plans for the new stadium a year ago. The designs, created by his close friend, the renowned architect Norman Foster, have sparked divided opinions, with some comparing the new venue with its huge roof to a circus big top. It remains to be seen whether this roof, intended to cope with Manchester’s wet climate, will feature in the final design.