Trafford’s bold vision: transformative developments driving growth

Trafford is undergoing a remarkable transformation, with a series of ambitious developments set to reshape the borough and propel it into a dynamic era of growth, writes Trafford Council Leader Cllr Tom Ross.

From major regeneration projects to the creation of vibrant new communities, the area is emerging as a cornerstone of Greater Manchester’s long-term vision for sustainable growth and economic prosperity.

At the heart of this evolution lies the regeneration of Old Trafford, an iconic district synonymous with Manchester’s rich sporting heritage. Manchester United’s ambitious plans to create a new 100,000-capacity stadium on land next to its existing ground, alongside creating a vibrant community district will represent a seismic shift for the area. With 5,000 new homes, and the potential for up to 12,000 more, and an economic injection of up to £7.3bn annually, the scale of the proposed regeneration promises to transform Old Trafford into not just a world-class sporting destination, but a thriving urban hub.

The strategic partnership between Trafford Council, the club and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority highlights how collaboration between public and private sectors can unlock transformative opportunities.

Complementing this, the nearby Lumina Village development is set to support the continued work to grow the Old Trafford area. This £250m project, developed by Bruntwood, Glenbrook, Moorfield, and Clarion Housing, will create 639 homes, including a mix of affordable, shared ownership, and private rental options. With its emphasis on pedestrian-friendly public spaces, village greens, and civic squares, Lumina Village aims to create an inclusive community in the shadow of the renowned Old Trafford cricket ground. The combination of diverse housing options and ground-floor retail spaces will breathe new life into this historic neighbourhood.

Further west, the long-awaited Peel Trafford Waters project is shaping up to become one of the largest mixed-use developments in Greater Manchester. Set across 53 acres along the Manchester Ship Canal, Trafford Waters will deliver 3,000 homes, 800,000 sq ft of commercial space, and essential community infrastructure, including a school and health centre. The development’s focus on sustainability and community connectivity positions it as a model for future urban living, offering a balance of residential, business, and green spaces that will evolve over the next two decades.

Meanwhile, the New Carrington project represents a cornerstone of Trafford’s long-term housing and employment strategy. Designated as a key site in the Places for Everyone plan, the development will deliver 5,000 homes and 3.7m sq ft of employment space, reinforcing Trafford’s role in Greater Manchester’s economic ecosystem. Crucially, New Carrington will not only provide much-needed housing but also integrate green spaces and transport links, creating a sustainable blueprint for future communities.

Our commitment to revitalising our town centres is equally evident in the Stretford regeneration masterplan. The transformation of Stretford Mall aims to help create a vibrant town centre that blends independent businesses, green spaces, and community amenities. The reimagining of King Street as a bustling high street, alongside plans for 800 new homes and canal-side enhancements, signals a fresh chapter for Stretford, driven by community-led design and sustainability.

The Council has also teamed up with the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and FEC with a plan to transform Greater Manchester Police’s former HQ in Stretford into new homes.

These developments, which meet many of our priorities including providing a thriving economy and homes for all, collectively reflect Trafford’s ambitious yet considered approach to growth.

By blending large-scale regeneration with community-focused design, the borough is setting a blueprint for sustainable urban living. The emphasis on affordable housing, green spaces, and transport connectivity ensures that economic growth is accompanied by social and environmental benefits.

As these projects take shape, Trafford is not simply expanding – it is redefining what it means to be a thriving, inclusive community in the heart of Greater Manchester. The coming years will be transformative, not just for our skyline, but for the lives of the people who call the borough home.

• Cllr Tom Ross is Leader of Trafford Council