Manchester United’s plans to build a 100,000-seat stadium next to Old Trafford are being delayed due to a disagreement over land prices. The club needs to acquire land currently used as a rail freight terminal to complete their regeneration project, which they say could boost the UK economy by £7.3 billion annually.
United has been negotiating with Freightliner, the company that owns the terminal, but talks have stalled because the two sides can’t agree on a price. Freightliner is asking for around £400 million, while United values the land at £40-50 million.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who has called the proposed stadium “the Wembley of the North,” has made it clear United won’t pay Freightliner’s asking price. Although Freightliner is open to relocating to St Helens, they’re in no hurry to move, leaving United in a difficult position.
United had hoped to start construction this year, but without securing the land, the project faces delays. The club could increase their offer, wait for Freightliner to lower their price, or adjust their plans to avoid needing the site. Another option would be a compulsory purchase order, but that could lead to legal disputes and further hold-ups.
Originally, Ratcliffe aimed to complete the stadium by 2030, but with planning permission still pending, land deals unresolved, and architects yet to be formally appointed, that timeline looks increasingly ambitious.
At a recent fans’ forum, United acknowledged that securing the land remains a hurdle. The club stated they’re working with local authorities and potential investors but can’t move forward until the necessary land and funding are secured.Here’s a more natural and fluent version of your text:
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A look at how Manchester United’s new stadium could appear on match days. (Photo: Reuters)
United have estimated the total project cost at £4.2 billion, but they say it will bring major social and economic benefits to the local community and the wider region. These include creating 92,000 jobs, building over 17,000 new homes, and attracting an additional 1.8 million visitors each year.
The club projects the stadium itself will cost around £2 billion. However, industry sources suggest £3 billion is a more realistic figure, especially since the tented roof alone is expected to cost £300 million. Freightliner’s demand for £400 million could push the redevelopment well over budget from the outset.
United have confirmed they are not seeking public funding for the stadium construction. The club declined to comment on private commercial negotiations.
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