Manchester United concern after Old Trafford listed as asset of community value

Manchester United has expressed concern that the legislation on assets of community value is “not being applied correctly” after its local authority agreed to list Old Trafford.

Trafford Council approved the listing after the football ground was nominated by the Manchester United Supporters Trust (MUST).

The club will now ask Trafford Council to follow the statutory review process.

In a statement, Manchester United said: “The club has received the decision by Trafford Council. Old Trafford is, of course, a special place; it is the heart and soul of the club. The club obviously sees it the same way, which is why over the last eight years it has demonstrated its commitment to Old Trafford by spending around £90m upgrading its facilities and it will continue that investment in the future.

“We do have concerns that the legislation is not being applied correctly which could set a precedent throughout the country. Therefore, we have asked the council to follow the statutory review process to ensure the legislation is being applied as intended and we shall continue to keep open communication with the council.”

A MUST spokesperson said: "We welcome this news – and believe both Manchester United and other football fans should too.

"While we appreciate the owners have no current plans to move or sell Old Trafford, this is a decision that helps to protect fans' interests in the long term, as no one knows what the future holds."

Communities Secretary Eric Pickles said he was delighted by the listing. He said: "The Community Right to Bid brought in by this Government, gives communities the opportunity to retain land and buildings for use and ownership by local people who value them most."

"Many of our great cities - including Manchester - are recognised around the world because of the sporting institutions which represent them. The new community rights we have introduced have ensured that even a global iconic institution like Manchester United will remain rooted in the community in which it was founded thanks to the actions of the Manchester United Supporters Trust. I look forward to other communities following this wonderful example."