Planning granted for new Musgrave stand

Cork City Council has granted full planning permission for the development of a new stand at Musgrave Park.

It will bring the ground capacity up to 12,500 and comes hot on the heels of the news that Thomond Park will be developed into a new stadium with a capacity of 26,000.

Munster Rugby chief executive Garrett Fitzgerald said: "Everyone associated with rugby in Munster is delighted with this positive news, especially leading into a challenging weekend for the Munster team.

"The permissions granted for both venues is a further step towards our ambition to remain constantly at the forefront of European rugby following on last year's Heineken Cup win.

"Improved facilities will assist in the development of age-grade and club rugby throughout the province and will reward our wonderful supporters. The volunteer input in both projects should be recognised as we all move forward together."