Demolishing Manchester United’s Stadium Suggested As First Step Of Redevelopment

It has been reported that the chief architect in Manchester United’s stadium redevelopment project, Populous’ chief executive Chris Lee, has suggested Old Trafford be demolished to make way for the building of a new stadium.

It follows billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Christmas Eve takeover of the Manchester United, where he pledged an investment of £245m in the club. One of his first, and most vital, decisions is what to do with Old Trafford, an iconic stadium which nevertheless is now seen as dilapidated and in a state of disrepair.

There are three options available, in ascending order of complexity, time and cost: a cosmetic makeover, expand the south stand, or – despite being United’s home since 1910 – demolish the current stadium and build a totally new one.

Chris Lee, Populous, has been quoted as saying: “The building is reaching the end of its natural life – the cabling, the electricity supplies, everything is nearing its sell by date. And the interiors are very cramped and difficult in places”.

Mr Lee has anticipated questions about the costs, adding “I feel the new build may well turn out to be the most cost effective solution. Yes, the initial outlay is obviously the highest of the three options but there is so much land available to develop there”.

A fresh build would give them the best opportunity to created “something really innovative and exciting. There would be no space constrictions”.

Crucially, Populous believe that there would be minimum disruption to United’s games and fan base as they could build on the surrounding land “… they could carry on using the existing ground while building work is underway, meaning no decline in matchday revenues”.