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MCC receives green light for latest Lord’s development

The £50m (€56.4m/$64.4m) second phase of the transformation plan for Lord’s Cricket Ground has today (Wednesday) been granted full planning permission by Westminster City Council in London.

The second part of a long-term redevelopment plan first unveiled in 2013 involves the construction of two new three-tier stands to replace the existing Compton and Edrich Stands at the ‘Home of Cricket’.

Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), owner of Lord’s, has been granted planning permission after details of the second phase were revealed in June. The designs by WilkinsonEyre will remain consistent with the overall architectural identity of Lord’s and the ‘village cricket green’ ethos, whilst working to improve the overall harmony of the north-east end of the ground.

The plans include much needed upgraded amenities. There are currently no facilities within the existing stands, with poor sightlines in the lower tiers. The new designs include integrated catering and toilet facilities, and vastly improved sightlines for the seats in the lower levels in an effort to substantially improve the spectator experience.

The seating capacity of the new stands will be increased by around 2,500, accommodating 11,500 spectators overall, which will enable MCC to better satisfy the demand for tickets from the general public, and there will also be wheelchair-accessible spaces as well as lift access at all levels.

Construction is due to commence on August 24 after the completion of this summer’s major matches, which include the World Cup and the Ashes.  The MCC said the rapid-build design sequence has been developed to minimise interruption to match fixtures, with the new stands’ seats due to be ready for use during the 2020 season.

Fully fitted-out facilities are scheduled to be completed for the summer of 2021. MCC members will be asked to approve the plans at the Club’s AGM in May.

MCC chief executive and secretary, Guy Lavender, said: “We are excited to be commencing another transformational development at Lord’s, and by raising the capacity to 31,000 we will be able to welcome more spectators to enjoy matches at the largest cricket ground in the country, here at the Home of Cricket.

“The redevelopment will be an outstanding addition delivering world-class facilities, ensuring that Lord’s remains the finest ground in the world to watch, and play cricket.”

Image: WilkinsonEyre