Inspired by the incredible history of Manchester, the English architect's hometown, the Foster + Partners' project will transform a 1 million-square-meter brownfield site into a thriving mixed-use district, featuring a network of green civic spaces, streets, bridges, and waterfront areas. At the same time, the project will leverage opportunities for stormwater harvesting and renewable energy.
The project aims to establish itself as a new international benchmark for sustainable urban development, connecting transport and pedestrian lines between new and existing communities. The possible disappearance of goods trains from the West Coast Main Line would act as a catalyst for the project by allowing more passengers to reach Manchester Piccadilly and the North West region, creating better rail links to Liverpool and freeing up land for the Old Trafford stadium district.
Old Trafford Stadium District by Foster + Partners. Rendering by Foster + Partners.
"This has to be one of the most exciting projects in the world today, with incredible regional and national significance. It all starts with the fan's experience, bringing them closer than ever to the pitch and acoustically cultivating a huge roar. The stadium is contained by a vast umbrella, harvesting energy and rainwater, and sheltering a new public plaza that is twice the size of Trafalgar Square. The outward-looking stadium would be the beating heart of a new sustainable district, which is completely walkable, served by public transport, and endowed by nature. It is a mixed - use miniature city of the future – driving a new wave of growth and creating a global destination that Mancunians can be proud of".
Lord Norman Foster, Founder and Executive Chairman, Foster + Partners.
Old Trafford Stadium District by Foster + Partners. Rendering by Foster + Partners.
Inverting the traditional model of football stadium design, the new stadium concept is open and outward-facing, with stands that wrap around and dominate the whole. The stadium will be conceived as a globally recognisable homage to the club and its fans.
"The new stadium design is a celebration of the unique and extraordinary history of Manchester United – and will provide a world - class experience for its 1.1 billion global fans and followers. Three towering masts hold up the stadium’s canopy, embodying the club’s trident emblem, and creating a distinctive presence on the skyline. Teamwork and the city’s renowned spirit of innovation are cornerstones of this remarkable project, which would look to embrace the network of the Manchester Ship Canal and cutting - edge prefabrication technologies to build the stadium in record time".
Nigel Dancey, Head of Studio, Foster + Partners.
Old Trafford Stadium District by Foster + Partners. Rendering by Foster + Partners.
The covered plaza will offer a series of interactive experiences for Manchester United fans. Foster + Partners' project creates a processional route from the new train station to the plaza, which will serve as a meeting point for fans as well as being able to host community events.
The 100,000-seater stadium bowl provides an unrivalled match day experience, increasing fans’ proximity to the pitch and creating an intimate atmosphere with outstanding acoustics. Modular offsite prefabrication and use of the Manchester Ship Canal would significantly increase the speed of construction.
