The UK Government has thrown its full weight behind Manchester United's ambitious plans to build a new 100,000-seater stadium, which would become the largest in Britain.
The project, unveiled earlier this month, has received enthusiastic backing from Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy, who confirmed the scheme has government support.
The proposed 'Wembley of the North' would be built on club-owned land adjacent to Old Trafford.
Speaking to Sky Sports News, Ms Nandy said: "It's a moving feast at the moment, but we are impatient to get the economy growing again and get projects like this off the ground. We're not wasting a minute."
Man United plan on spending £2bn on a new stadium despite their poor form on the pitchFosters and PartnersThe Culture Secretary revealed high-level discussions are already underway.
"The Chancellor, Business Secretary and I have been in discussions and we're really keen to crack on," she added.
The government appears determined to maximise the benefits of the project for local communities.
The new stadium, referred to as 'New Trafford' in a briefing document, will feature an innovative umbrella design that architects say will harvest solar energy and rain water.
A distinctive element will be three masts inspired by the Red Devil's trident, making the structure visible from 40km away.
Lord Foster, the architect behind the project, has indicated it will take five years to construct this iconic venue.
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A spokesperson for the Prime Minister has highlighted that the proposals could generate 90,000 jobs and deliver a significant boost to the economy.
No public money will be used to build the stadium, which is expected to cost up to £2bn, according to Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham.
The economic impact extends beyond construction, with Ms Nandy noting: "People will flock in, spend money in local shops, restaurants, cafes and takeaways."
This represents a substantial opportunity for local businesses.
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Sir Jim Ratcliffe unveiled plans to build an astonishing new stadium for United earlier this month
PAThe community benefits extend beyond economic impact, with the Culture Secretary emphasising opportunities for young people.
"We've seen it in other parts of the country where if you can build new infrastructure, you are able to open up more opportunities to young people from those communities to come in, play football and use those facilities," Ms Nandy explained.
She highlighted the growing demand for sporting facilities nationwide.
"We have got huge waiting lists in the country for boys and girls who want to get involved in football, not just inspired by the men's game but by the Lionesses."
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Man United are set to move away from Old Trafford with Sir Jim Ratcliffe sanctioning a brand new stadium insteadPASir Jim Ratcliffe, United's minority shareholder, has made his ambition clear: "If the government really gets behind this scheme, we will build an iconic football stadium."
The collaboration between the club, government and Greater Manchester Mayor appears to be gathering momentum.
"We are really excited for the project, we're talking to them about how we can best work together to deliver it," Ms Nandy confirmed.
This partnership promises to transform not just Manchester United's future, but the entire region's sporting landscape.
