On May 26th the Thomond Park Re-Development Committee unveiled the design for the re-development of Limerick’s famous Thomond Park Stadium, home to Munster Rugby. This follows the wonderful success of the Munster Rugby team in winning the Heineken European Cup Final in Cardiff.

Designed by Murray O'Laoire Architects and Stadia Architects AFL it provides for a 26,000 capacity at the old and historic Limerick venue, at the cost of €40 million. It is envisaged that a planning application will be lodged by July (2006) and it is hoped that the re-development programme can commence early in 2007. Completion is anticipated in 18 months, for a scheduled re-opening in autumn 2008.

 
The principal elements of the project will see the erection of two new stands adjacent to the existing main pitch, offering a seating capacity for 15,000 and terrace capacity of 11,000. The two sweeping arches of the new Thomond Park stands will ultimately become the image that all rugby fans will come to associate with this famous ground.

Hugh Murray of Murray O'Laoire Architects, Limerick, said:
"The new Thomond Park stands will enhance the legendary intensity of the 'Munster experience' by housing 15,000 fans as close to the pitch as possible and with great views of the action. They will be a powerful icon of the home of Munster Rugby for future generations and their distinctive curved forms will stand out as a proud new city landmark."

At the presentation, president of the Munster branch of the IRFU Ken Lyons said that:
"There are few rugby followers in the world who are not aware of the history and great traditions associated with rugby at Thomond Park. This wonderful redevelopment project is entirely fitting."

Thomond Park is synonymous with Limerick, and is the ground where Munster remains unbeaten in 11 years of European Cup competition and also the scene for Munster's historic defeat of the touring All Blacks on October 31st 1978, their only defeat of that tour.