Planning lodged for new Cricket Ireland stadium

Planning and digital renders for a new stadium and high performance centre for Cricket Ireland in Dublin have been lodged by Sport Ireland.

The plans include a floodlit stadium with a seated capacity of 4,240 spectators and a two-storey pavilion, where the sport's high performance centre would be located.

A proposal for an extra 7,760 non-permanent seats, which would bring the total capacity up to 12,000 for selected events, has also been put forward.

Development of a new stadium was granted by the Irish government in August, with the project earmarked for completion in 2028.

In August, Cricket Ireland chief executive Warren Deutrom said the plan would allow Ireland to "host the world's top teams on an annual basis", which would include co-hosting the ICC Men's T20 World Cup with England and Scotland in 2030.

Cricket Ireland officials are understood to have visited the Hagley Oval in Christchurch, New Zealand and Hampshire's Utilita Bowl in Southampton to gain inspiration for the new ground's design.

The stadium will be based at the Sport Ireland campus in Blanchardstown, which is in the north-west outskirts of Dublin.

The campus already contains the headquarters of the Football Association of Ireland, Irish rugby's high performance centre, Aquatics Ireland and is Ireland's Olympics and Special Olympics hub.

Ireland's senior men's and women's teams use grounds in Malahide, Clontarf, Stormont, and Bready for international matches.

Dr Una May, CEO of Sport Ireland, said the "cutting-edge facility will revolutionise cricket in Ireland".

"[It will] offer a world-class high-performance centre where our athletes can refine their skills and compete at the highest level, while giving fans an unparalleled live experience of the sport.

"We recognise cricket's widespread popularity within our multicultural communities, and we're excited for the centre to become a vibrant hub that celebrates diversity, fosters inclusion, and encourages cultural connections."

Cricket Ireland have been contacted for comment.