Stadium plan unveiled to public
The plans for the new-look stadium were presented to the public yesterday by the respective bodies and the developers, Arup Sport, who are a division of Arup Consulting Engineers.
Both associations had met with Sports Minister John O’Donoghue before Christmas with the plans for the stadium.
In the proposals, the IRFU and FAI together would come up with a third of the €250 million construction costs. And they outlined how over €84m of the total cost of the project will be returned to the exchequer in VAT, PAYE and PRSI returns.
The computer-generated image displayed yesterday showed how the development can be fully covered with a translucent roof in poor weather conditions.
The IRFU and& FAI also allayed fears that the building of the stadium would disrupt public transport, promising construction plans allow for the “continued smooth running of DART and rail services without risk to passengers or staff.”
IRFU chief executive Philip Browne said: “Both rugby and soccer deserve this vote of confidence.
Mr Browne said both sports, through the exploits of their respective teams and their loyal fans, had positively raised the profile of Ireland abroad.
Head of the FAI, Fran Rooney said: “We are seeking a decision from Government to invest in two of the nation’s most popular and successful sports.
“If it gets the go ahead the economic benefits to the state will more than justify the investment of public funds,” he said.
Mr Rooney also pointed the long term health benefits for the nation of promoting the sports.
The design proposes a new stadium within the IRFU’s property at Lansdowne Road, comprising three-tier structures for the east and west Stands and single tier stand at either goal end.
It is envisaged each stand will be covered by a layered roof, and the design will give every spectator an unobstructed view of the pitch.
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