FC United’s stadium set for approval
MANCHESTER City Council is set to approve a FC United of Manchester’s plans for a 5,000-seat football stadium.
The breakaway not-for-profit club was formed five years ago in response to the Glazer takeover at Manchester United.
It has already raised £500,000 towards the development of its new ground at Newton Heath through a community share issue.
City planners will consider the application when they meet on November 25. According to a report prepared ahead of the meeting there has been some concern from local residents about traffic, noise and the demolition of an existing sports centre.
But it has also been supported by people who believe the ground and FC United will be a positive force in Newton Heath.
The council’s report stated: “This is a very much welcomed development within the Newton Heath ward and the city, which would provide a high quality sporting and recreational facility for both professionals and the community.
“The facilities currently at this site would be significantly improved and enhanced to provide an excellent facility for all ages within the wider neighbourhood, and would introduce a community based football club into the area that has working with local residents, schools and community groups at the core of their constitution.”
The club is hoping to raise £1.5m towards the £3.5m cost of the new stadium. Around £1.5m has already been pledged in grant funding and the club is hoping to raise a further £500,000 in donations.
FC United currently play at Bury FC’s Gigg Lane stadium in the Northern Premier League Premier Division – the seventh tier of English football.
* Planners will also make a decision on Peel Group’s plans for 88 flats on the site of the disused Jackson’s Wharf pub in Castlefield. A decision was due last month but this was postponed to allow for a site visit. A report prepared ahead of next week’s meeting has recommended councillors approve the application.
