Manchester City Football Club (MCFC) has launched a public consultation to gather views on its plans for a new youth development and training facility near its Etihad Stadium.

Residents, supporters and other stakeholders will have the opportunity to share feedback on the Etihad Campus project, which will transform 80 acres (33 hectares) of brown field land. The key elements of the development include the construction of a youth development and first team training centre, which would meet new Premier League academy requirements.

It would feature an academy accommodating up to 400 young players; 16 football pitches - up to 12 dedicated for players aged between eight and 18; and a first team building. A 7,000-capacity stadium for youth matches; staff offices; and a dedicated media centre will also form part of the proposed new facility, which will be linked to the Etihad Stadium.

MCFC said the development will also allow it to expand its City in the Community project, while driving forward the regeneration of East Manchester and providing job opportunities. "Manchester City's ambition is to be a successful and sustainable football club and youth recruitment and development through a top class facility is a key component of that ambition," said MCFC chief executive officer Garry Cook.

"Our research to date has been painstaking and our planning comprehensive and while our plans would inevitably have a positive impact on both our young and established playing talent, the regenerative and economic impact for our community should not be underestimated." Image: The scheme is proposed for land near MCFC's Etihad Stadium - Mikey