Neville 1 United 0: Green light for legend's plans for fans' complex despite club protest



Gary Neville looks to have won his battle with Manchester United over his proposals for a hotel and supporters' club opposite Old Trafford.



United had objected to Neville's plans for a 10-storey leisure and retail complex. But town planners have recommended the project, which will include a bar, a shop and 139 bedrooms, according to the Manchester Evening News.



Neville, a club legend who made over 400 appearances for the Red Devils before retiring last year, must pay around £162,000 towards highway and transport schemes and a further £82,770 unless he plants 267 trees on the site next to the Bridgewater Canal on Sir Matt Busby Way.

Future vision: An artist's impression of the hotel on Sir Matt Busby Way

Neville has said he will be funding the project using money generated by his testimonial match against Juventus in May 2011 'to say thank you' to United's fans. The development is joint venture with the Old Trafford Supporters Club.



In February the club lodged a five-page document with Trafford Council, saying: 'MUFC shall continue to oppose and object to the proposed scheme' due to its impact on 'the club's holistic vision for the continuing enhancement of the area surrounding the stadium'.



But the planners rejected United's claims that the building would spoil the landscape and believe that the development will 'support economic growth'.



There were also objections raised by United over the lack of parking at the new facility. Neville is obliged to provide evidence that the site can provide parking spaces for 210 cars three months prior to opening.



Gary's dream: How Neville's hotel would look once constructed next to the Bridgewater Canal

The planners' 18-page report also revealed that Greater Manchester Police's United match commander, Chief Supt Mark Roberts, has concerns over an increase in the risk of crime and disorder due to having licenced premises so close to Old Trafford. But no official objection was raised by GMP.

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Planning consultant for the project, Rob Turley, said on behalf of Neville: 'We are aware that Trafford Planning Committee will meet and we understand the scheme is recommended for approval by the officers. We await the outcome of planning committee.'



A club spokesman said: 'Manchester United are aware of the planning report and await the council's decision.'



