Lancs lodge new plans

LANCASHIRE cricket club have submitted their planning application for the next stage of a multi–million–pound re–development of Old Trafford and the surrounding area.

It is hoped the proposals to Trafford Council – part of a 50–acre project at the ground and nearby – will include a Tesco store with approximately 100,000 square feet of retail sales floorspace to provide more than 500 jobs, half of which would be guaranteed for the local long–term unemployed.

Estimates are that the development will bring at least £70million of investment into Trafford, generating 71,000 additional visitors to the venue each year.

Lancashire chief executive Jim Cumbes said: “The significant investment in the new facilities will ensure Old Trafford regains its rightful place on the Test Match circuit in time for the 2013 Ashes Test.”

The first phase of the development is already under way, with a new conference and events suite under construction and due for completion in July 2010.

The second phase includes enhancing the existing pavilion and adding new player and media facilities – as well as an indoor school extension.

Two new grandstands are to ensure a capacity of 15,000, capable of rising to 25,000 with temporary seating.