Featured image credit: Leinster Rugby
The Royal Dublin Society, owner of RDS Arena, has submitted a new planning application for redevelopment of the home of Irish United Rugby Championship (URC) team Leinster.
The RDS has entered the application to Dublin City Council, with the Irish Mirror stating that a €50m (£42.8m/$52.7m) project, funded by the RDS, the Irish Government and private investors, intends to raise capacity at the stadium from the current mark of 18,500 to 21,500.
Under the plans, the existing Anglesea stand, first built close to a century ago, will be demolished, along with the Anglesea Terrace. A new 6,775-capacity stand will be erected in its place, along with a two-storey hospitality and services building, and club shop.
The RDS is seeking fresh planning permission for the project after an application lapsed that was initially backed in 2018. “Leinster Rugby can confirm that the RDS applied for planning permission for the regeneration of its Arena in June,” said a spokesperson for the province.
“We look forward to supporting the RDS in achieving its ambition to create a world-class multi-purpose arena for excellence in sports and entertainment.”
In October, it was announced that Leinster will continue to play at the RDS Arena for the next 25 years after a new agreement was signed with the RDS.
Leinster commenced play at the stadium in September 2005 and signed its first lease deal with the RDS two years later. The RDS Arena has hosted the majority of Leinster’s home matches since 2007.
Prior to moving to the venue, Leinster played matches at Donnybrook Stadium. The club currently plays some high-profile games at the larger Aviva Stadium.
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