News article – Style D 1352

The Irish Rugby Football Union and the Football Association of Ireland have unveiled the design for the proposed new world-class 50,000 seater stadium at Lansdowne Road.

Following a joint delegation to the Minister for Sport, Mr John O Donoghue TD, last December, the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) and the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) have unveiled the design for the proposed new world-class 50,000 seater stadium at Lansdowne Road.

A computer generated image showing the stadium set into a photograph of the surrounding area in Ballsbridge was developed by Arup Sport, a division of Arup Consulting Engineers.

The design is for a totally new stadium within the precincts of the IRFU s property at Lansdowne Road. It is for an integrated structure comprising new three tier structures for the East and West Stands and single tier stands at the Lansdowne Road and Havelock Square ends.

Each of the four stands would be completely covered by an attractive, sweeping translucent roof that would minimise the effects of poor weather on each of the 50,000 spectators as they enjoy comfortable unobstructed views of the pitch from any vantage point in the stadium. The attractive stadium would represent a significant aesthetic improvement on the existing structure and is designed to minimise the impact on local residents.

The IRFU & FAI were able to allay fears of any disruption to public transport services along the adjoining railway line during the redevelopment phase. The construction process provides for the continued smooth running of DART and rail services without risk to passengers or staff. In fact, the new stadium would benefit from much improved and safer pedestrian access as a result of walkways under the railway line instead of the level crossing route. Spectators would have easy access to the wider stadium precincts providing for relaxed congregation around the stadium prior to and after matches.

Commenting on the plans the Chief Executive of the IRFU, Mr. Philip Browne, said: Both Rugby and Soccer deserve this vote of confidence. Through the exploits of our respective teams and loyal fans, between us we have positively raised the profile of Ireland from Korea to Australia, from Argentina to Italy and from the United States to South Africa in the name of sporting and human achievement.

Mr Fran Rooney of the FAI said: We are seeking for a decision from Government to invest in two of the nation s most popular and successful sports on the international stage. If it gets the go ahead the economic benefits to the state will more than justify the investment of public funds. More importantly, over the longer term we will improve the underlying health of this nation through taking soccer and rugby participants to new heights of achievement at every level of our respective sports.