Manchester United’s attention is currently fixed on the start of the new Premier League season, with Michael Carrick’s side set to begin their campaign away to newly-promoted Hull City.
While preparations on the pitch continue, work is also taking place to improve the overall experience for supporters visiting Old Trafford.
The club has already outlined ambitious long-term plans, including the construction of a new £2 billion, 100,000-seat stadium, which will become the centrepiece of the Trafford Wharfside regeneration project.
That new venue is expected to be built around 350 metres northwest of the current Old Trafford site, allowing United to continue playing at their historic home throughout construction.
Before those long-term changes arrive, however, supporters will soon have something completely new to enjoy on matchdays.
Manchester United announce new section at Old Trafford
Manchester United have officially announced, via their website, plans to open their first-ever permanent matchday fan zone, named The Paddock, at Old Trafford.
Located just 15 metres behind the Stretford End, the new space will provide supporters with food, drinks and entertainment before and after home fixtures.
The club confirmed the fan zone will have a capacity of 1,300 supporters and will be free to enter for all Manchester United match ticket holders, although it will operate exclusively on matchdays.
The name “The Paddock” was selected following consultation with the Fan Experience Working Group and pays tribute to the historic standing terrace once situated alongside the famous Stretford End.
The project also forms part of United’s new partnership with Levy, one of the world’s leading hospitality and entertainment companies.
As part of that collaboration, supporters can also expect a number of improvements throughout Old Trafford, including additional draught beer taps, expanded self-service bars and a wider variety of food and drink options.
Subject to planning approval, The Paddock is expected to welcome supporters for the first time this autumn.
However, the new fan zone is not intended to be a permanent fixture forever.
With Manchester United pressing ahead with plans for their new stadium, the area is expected to remain in place for only the next few years before making way for the wider redevelopment surrounding the club’s future home.