Manchester United Supporters Win Fight To Award Old Trafford ACV Status

A Manchester United fans' group has succeeded in having Old Trafford registered as an Asset of Community Value.

Manchester United Supporters' Trust nominated the stadium for the listing with the aim of guarding against any surprise sale in the future.

The group also hopes ACV status will make it difficult for the club to leave Old Trafford if, at any stage, the current owners decide to relocate.

The Glazer family has never given any indication that is its intention, and a United statement issued in response to the ruling pointed out £90m-worth of work has been carried out at the arena in the past eight years.

But United have nevertheless called for a review of the decision.

The statement read: "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."

Duncan Drasdo, MUST's chief executive, 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.

"We still aim to build a more positive relationship with Manchester United and do not envisage a difference of opinion on this issue will hamper that. We are looking forward to a successful season both on and off the pitch."