Irish government backs £210m national stadium

The Irish Government has given its backing to a £210m redevelopment of the Republic of Ireland's national football and rugby stadium.

Ministers have confirmed that they would provide "substantial funds" for the project which will see Lansdowne Road becoming a 50,000 all-seater venue.

The other national stadium option had been to build a new venue on a green field site at Abbotstown near Dublin.

The Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) and Football Association of Ireland (FAI) said the government's decision was a "vote of confidence" for Irish sport.

"We greatly appreciate the support of the government in endorsing our ambition that Irish rugby and sport in general should have the facility of a stadium of this standard and magnitude," said IRFU chief executive Philip Browne.

"The stadium provides a really positive platform to develop all aspects of the game for future generations," added FAI chief executive Fran Rooney.

Plans reveal that the stadium will comprise a new three-tier structure for the East and West Stands with single-tier structures at the present terrace ends.

Each of the four stands will be completely covered by a sweeping, translucent roof that would minimise the effects of the weather.

The proposed redevelopment is expected to be completed in 2008.