Munster Rugby to begin €20m Musgrave Park development

MUNSTER Rugby is about to embark on a €20million development of Musgrave Park, the first phase of which will see an increase in ground capacity from 7,000 to 12.500 by the third quarter of 2011.

Ultimately, the hope is to increase the capacity of the ground to between 18,000 and 22,000 in a development that could facilitate other sports or special events in years to come, probably by 2014 at the latest.

Former Munster Branch President Niall O’Driscoll confirmed yesterday that phase one of the project – the demolition of the current tiny west stand to be replaced by a state-of-the-art 6,500 capacity structure – would begin in January of next year and should be completed in time for the start of the new season in September.

Up to €8m has been allocated to allow for completion of the first part of the project.

O’Driscoll emphasised this would only be the start of the overall development, plans for which have been drawn up and plans that include a further big seating arrangement of similar size on the east side of the ground. Munster Rugby has also decided to develop the areas at either end of the ground and may include some seating in those areas that are currently terraced. Permission has already been granted for the west stand development and plans are in the process of being lodged to complete the overall plan which ran into trouble because of some local objections and lack of cooperation from a small number of city councillors.

Musgrave Park, even with full development, will not be allocated Heineken Cup games for up to six more seasons, but could benefit by hosting big Magners League games, thus helping to generate serious revenue for the local economy.

O’Driscoll said yesterday: “We have now decided to drive ahead with the development to bring the capacity eventually to something between 18,000 and 22,000.

“All along we were looking to have permission for the entire project, but we have now decided to start with what we have permission for and have plans to continue that around the ground. At this stage, it is essential to have an overall plan to provide a state-of-the-art stadium for our supporters, for the people of Cork and the people of Munster.

“By doing it that way we’re showing everyone we are serious about staying in Musgrave Park.”