20 Jan 2020
Old Trafford plans approved – will become largest cricket ground outside of London
BY Tom Walker
Trafford Council has approved plans to build a new 4,850-seater stand at Emirates Old Trafford – the home of Lancashire Cricket.
The new stand will increase the capacity of Emirates Old Trafford to 26,700, making it the largest cricket ground outside of London.
As well as the extra seating, the plans will see the creation of a cricket museum and retail shop. The current Red Rose Suite will also be replaced with a more modern suite with a pitch view.
Also included in the plans is an extension of the Hilton Garden Inn hotel, which opened its doors two years ago.
Construction of the stand is part of a larger redevelopment of the stadium and its surrounding areas.
The plans – designed by architects BDP – will see Trafford Town Hall and adjoining properties being turned into a new ‘Civic Quarter,’ which covers a 120-acre site taking in the Town Hall, Lancashire Cricket Club, the former Kellogg’s site – including the University Academy 92 (UA92) campus.
The proposals for the new area include a new leisure centre, an improved public realm, opportunities for new homes and offices and improved pedestrian and cycle routes.
They also include the possible development of a new public piazza and ‘processional route’ linking Lancashire Cricket Club with Manchester United’s Old Trafford stadium.
"The decade-long £60m redevelopment of the ground was so that the Club could host major competitions and major matches," said Daniel Gidney, CEO of Lancashire Cricket, which owns Emirates Old Trafford.
“The new stand and hotel extension will complete the redevelopment of Emirates Old Trafford. We’re committed to making Lancashire Cricket the best it possibly can be and position it as an unrivalled venue for business, sport and leisure.
“We’re looking forward to the next phase, which will help us to achieve our vision of establishing Lancashire Cricket as the best cricket club in the world. It’s an exciting chapter for both the Club and venue, and also the region. I would also like to thank Chroma and Paul Butler Associates for their assistance throughout the process."
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