Old Trafford cricket plans get go-ahead

TRAFFORD Council has approved a £32m plan to redevelop Old Trafford cricket ground and the surrounding area.

The decision, which is subject to formal approval by Government Office North West, could see the ground return as an international test cricket venue.

The England and Wales Cricket Board had said that after this year’s Test Match against Bangladesh there would be no more international cricket at Old Trafford without redevelopment.

Now planning has been granted, construction work must start in 2010 with completion in late 2012 if Old Trafford is to bid for hosting the Ashes Test in 2013.

The proposals by the Old Trafford Partnership, which is made up of Lancashire County Cricket Club, Ask Developments and Tesco, are part of a regeneration strategy for a 50-acre mixed use neighbourhood. 

The phase two works include a £32m investment in new player and media facilities, extension to the ground’s indoor cricket school, a substantially re-furbished Pavilion, and new two tier general admission seating.

Jim Cumbes, Lancashire County Cricket Club chief executive, said: “This is an historic decision for the future of international cricket in the North West – we can now press on with redeveloping the famous Old Trafford cricket ground and securing our place as one of the world’s best cricketing arenas.

“The planning committee recognised the important role the club plays in supporting Trafford’s economy – especially through hosting international matches like the Ashes. They also backed our plans to deliver a much-needed new retail offering, hundreds of local jobs, and millions of pounds in regeneration to this part of the borough.”

Trafford Council said it had received 947 letters of support for the proposals to redevelop Old Trafford cricket ground, build a new Tesco store on Chester Road, and regenerate the area – with 156 letters coming from Trafford residents and businesses. It received 263 objections in total, with 155 of those from Trafford.

Phase one – to create creating a new £15m conference and events suite – in underway and due for completion in July 2010.