New Manchester Utd stadium could bring £7bn boost, report finds

Part of the feasibility study included a survey of more than 50,000 Man Utd season ticket-holders, which found more than half favoured a new stadium.

The Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham said he plans to set up a new body to help drive forward the project before the stadium decision.

A Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC) is a statutory body that has powers including compulsory purchase.

Mr Burnham told BBC Radio Manchester this would ensure space around Old Trafford could be cleared to “maximise the club’s options”.

“It’s all about removing the freight terminals, and the freight that comes through Manchester city centre right behind Old Trafford.

“It’s not going to be just United supporters, every rail passengers in the north west will benefit from removal of that freight from our city centre.”

Trafford councillor Liz Patel said the wider regeneration of the area was a “long-term plan that will take years to bear fruit”.

The council has masterplan to redevelop the area which includes a target of 5,000 new homes.