David Beckham's team unveils new stadium plans for Miami MLS franchise

New plans have been unveiled for Miami Beckham United's waterfront stadium

The original plan for a facility at PortMiami was ruled out after resistance from local businesses

Beckham's MLS franchise is due to start playing in 2016 or 2017



David Beckham's team have unveiled plans for a new waterfront stadium in downtown Miami.

The venue will be home to Miami Beckham United and house 20,000 fans after their original plan for a facility at nearby PortMiami was ruled out by Dade County officials following resistance from local businesses.

The plan centres around a £12million project to fill in a deep-water boat slip next to the home of NBA side the Miami Heat.

Suited and booted: David Beckham (centre) was in Miami in February alongside Commissioner Don Garber and Mayor Carlos Gimenez to announce plans to launch a new Major League Soccer franchise

Sneak peek: Beckham's team have now unveiled plans for a new waterfront stadium in downtown Miami

The view from above: As part of the plans, Museum Park will be expanded to accommodate the new stadium

If the move goes ahead, Museum Park would be increased by 4.3 acres while the new site takes in a small piece of public-owned land known as Parcel B.

Beckham said in a statement: 'By expanding Museum Park with new public spaces anchored by world-class art and science museums and a world-class soccer club, we’ll be activating the waterfront on a year-round basis.'

Marcelo Claure added: 'Our plans to transform the FEC slip and Parcel B into soccer grounds and a public park will give Miami fans a chance to experience the thrill of the sport right in the heart of downtown.'



Beckham's MLS franchise is due to start playing in 2016 or 2017.

Address: John Alschuler (left) and Marcelo Claure, both part of Beckham's team, reveal the plans

By the coast: The new stadium will be situated close to the sea in downtown Miami

Leisurely stroll: Museum Park will be increased by 4.3 acres which will provide new public space



