The €67 million redevelopment of Páirc Uí Chaoimh in Cork city is on course for completion in 2017 following the signing of the demolition contract for the old stadium.
Páirc Uí Chaoimh is located on the south side of the River Lee just at the edge of Cork city centre.
It is the third largest stadium in Ireland after Croke Park and Semple Stadium.
The redeveloped stadium will have significantly enhanced facilities including new player and referee changing facilities, function rooms, hospitality rooms, corporate viewing boxes and associated facilities, medical rooms, gymnasium and restaurant.
The plan also allows for the development of an adjoining all weather-flood lit pitch for playing and coaching facilities and an associated seated stand.
Under the plan, Páirc Uí Chaoimh will see its capacity increase from 43,500 to 45,000 with the existing covered or South Stand (with a current capacity of 9,000) being replaced by a three-tier structure with a total capacity of 13,000.
The existing uncovered or North Stand (with a capacity of 9,000) will also be redeveloped with capacity reducing to 8,000 to allow it be roofed while both the terraces will also be upgraded while retaining their current capacities of 12,500 at both the city and Blackrock ends.
GAA officials insist the revamp of the site is vital for the future of GAA in Cork. The project is expected to create 400 construction jobs.
Cork company Loftus Developments will carry out the demolition work. They will move on to the site next week and will begin removing the remaining seats. They will then remove the roof on the southern stand. The terraces and the northern stand will be revamped.
Cork County Board chairman Ger Lane said the signing of the demolition contract was a milestone moment in the project.
“A huge amount go background work, discussions and meetings have gone in to this project, but it is great to see the physical work now begin.”