Tenders sought for €40m project at Thomand Park

THE €40 million Thomond Park development moved a step further yesterday when the Munster Branch of the IRFU sought expressions of interest from builders.

An advertisement has been directed at contractors and service contractors who are interested in entering talks for the design and construction of two stands with respective capacities of 7,643 and 8,013.

It read: “The development will consist of the demolition of the existing West Stand and West Terrace and dwellings at No 1 to 28 Knockalisheen Road and associated outbuildings.”

Ken Lyons, who heads the project committee, said they are now seeking expressions of interest to enable them let builders know what their requirements were.

He said: “We want to be in a situation that immediately after the last Heineken Cup game in January the contractor will be able to go straight in and start work and have it completed by October 2007 for the next Heineken Cup game.”

Mr Lyons said they want the builders intending to tender to know exactly what is involved.

He said they expect news on the planning application from Limerick City Council in the coming weeks.

The design concept for the new stadium has been widely acclaimed in sporting circles.

Knockalisheen Road residents who sold their homes to the IRFU have complained of delays in getting their money.

Mr Lyons said the money is with the IRFU Munster Branch solicitor and all that is required is that the titles to the houses be completed to close the sale of the houses.