Purpose

The report seeks approval for
the Council to enter into an Agreement with FIFA (the Federation
Internationale de Football Association) for Trafford to be a Host
City for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2035.

Decision

1.         
That approval, in principle, be given for the
Council to enter into an Agreement with FIFA (the Federation
Internationale de Football Association) for Trafford to be a Host
City for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2035.
 

2.         
That the Corporate Director of Place, in
consultation with the Director of Finance and Systems and the
Director of Legal and Governance, be delegated authority to agree
the terms of the Agreement.
 

3.         
That the Director of Legal and Governance be
delegated authority to enter into any
documentation required to implement the recommendations set out
within the report.
 

Reasons for the decision

To take advantage of the
opportunity to host a large sporting event in Trafford, aligning to
the Council’s Corporate Priorities and supporting delivery of
Trafford Moving and the borough’s Sport and Physical Activity
Strategy.
 
To benefit from the opportunity
to collaborate with a range of key stakeholders on the project,
including FIFA, the Football Association, UK government, Greater
Manchester Combined Authority, Manchester City Council, Manchester
United Football Club and Lancashire County Cricket Club, among
others.
 
To promote the positive
reputation of the Council, particularly through the promotion of
sport for women and girls.

Alternative options considered

There is the option to withdraw
from the bid at this stage. This would likely have a negative
impact on the Council’s reputation, particularly in light of the alignment between this opportunity
and the Council’s corporate priorities. There could also be a
negative impact on the Council’s strong relationships with
various stakeholders; in particular, Manchester United Football
Club, Greater Manchester Combined Authority and the Football
Association. Local businesses and organisations that would benefit
from additional tourism and footfall in Trafford would also be
negatively affected.