The Irish Rugby Football Union and the Football Association of Ireland have unveiled the design for the proposed new 50,000 all-seater stadium at Lansdowne Road.
The plans for the new-look stadium were presented to the public today by the respective bodies and the developers, Arup Sport, who are a division of Arup Consulting Engineers. The proposed development will be fully covered with a 'sweeping translucent roof ' that will keep spectators dry but also allow for normal growing conditions for the playing surface.
The design is for an integrated structure within the precincts of the IRFU's property at Lansdowne Road. New three tier structures will replace the existing East and West Stands, while a single tier stand will span the length of the Lansdowne Road and Havelock Square ends.
Commuters will be relieved to learn that DART and rail services will not be affected by the construction process. A statement read: "The construction process provides for the continued smooth running of DART and rail services without risk to passengers or staff. In fact, the new stadium would benefit from much improved and safer pedestrian access as a result of walkways under the railway line instead of the level crossing route."
Commenting on the plans, IRFU chief executive Philip Browne, said: "Both Rugby and Soccer deserve this vote of confidence. Through the exploits of our respective teams and loyal fans, between us we have positively raised the profile of Ireland from Korea to Australia, from Argentina to Italy and from the United States to South Africa in the name of sporting and human achievement."
FAI chief executive Fran Rooney added: "We are seeking a decision from Government to invest in two of the nation's most popular and successful sports on the international stage. If it gets the go-ahead the economic benefits to the state will more than justify the investment of public funds.
"More importantly, over the longer term we will improve the underlying health of this nation through taking soccer and rugby participants to new heights of achievement at every level of our respective sports."
The proposal put forward indicates that the cost of the development at Lansdowne Road at today's prices would be €250 million and that the joint contribution from the IRFU and the FAI would total €83 million.
COPYRIGHT OF THE IMAGE BELONGS TO ARUP.
Filed by Shane Murray
