United Hope for Ground Approval

Bigger?
By Chris O'Brien
September 13 2004

Trafford Metropolitan Borough Council have received an application from Manchester United for planning permission to expand Old Trafford. The Red Devils board hope that the ground can be expanded to boast a capacity of 75,000, with plans costing an estimated £45million.

Manchester United have officially submitted an application for planning permission to expand Old Trafford, increasing the capacity of the famous ground. Red Devils chiefs hope to extend the stadium to hold 75,000, making it bigger than the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff and improving the clubs gate receipt income on a weekly basis.

In the likelihood that Trafford Metropolitan Borough Council accept the proposal, work could begin as soon as March 2005 and be ready for the start of the 2005/2006 season. United are confident that all will go to plan, and the ground work is already being done with water and gas pipes being moved and reconstructed ready to build the extra 7,500 seats.

“If planning permission is granted, the board of Manchester United will take the final decision on whether to proceed with the project prior to the main construction contracts being awarded in early 2005.” read a club statement.

Although some Cup games are not sell-outs, every Football League game at Old Trafford has been a maximum attendance since the last redevelopment of the Theatre of Dreams which saw the ground rise to a 67,500 capacity. The ground improvements could see United take in an additional £4million a year through ticket money.

Plans are in the early stages, but it does seem likely that the developments will happen pending planning permission. This could cost the board £45million, and David Gill and co have not announced whether the upgrades would mean the transfer budget was slashed for a short period.