FAI and IRFU present stadium feasibility study

A joint FAI and IRFU delegation today presented the Minister for Sport with the results of a feasibility study into the building of a 65,000 all-seater stadium.

The study included a technical assessment of five sites, a project programme, an analysis of construction costs, the estimated funding requirements and the potential contribution from the sporting bodies.

The results of the study presented to the Minister today included both Lansdowne Road and Abbotstown as feasible options for the location of a new stadium.

The delegation has indicated that over the a six year period the net cost of the project would be between €353m and €397m, which takes account of a contribution from the IRFU and FAI of €118.5m depending on site.

This figure includes an estimate for VAT of up to €71m.

It was also stressed that in a project of this size an additional €85m to €100m through employment and other taxes will be returned to the exchequer.