Belfast City Council has approved our plans for the redevelopment of The Oval stadium in East Belfast.
The design for a new UEFA Category 3 stadium for Glentoran FC will see the demolition of existing stands, constructed in 1953, and construction of two new spectator stands.
Existing standing terracing at goal ends will also be reconfigured, along with provision of new artificial pitch, new turnstiles and associated siteworks, including new floodlighting.
The legendary club – ethos ‘Our Club Our Community’ – is working to support participation in sport and engagement at grassroots community level through provision of a state-of-the art stadium venue.
The two new all-seater stands will fit largely on the footprint of the demolished existing stands and provide 4,500 person capacity. Facilities to be provided over three stories include a fitness & medical centre, and high-quality conferencing and function facilities with potential for community use.
The reconfiguration of existing standing terracing at goal ends, which date back to the early 1900s, will provide an additional 1,500 person capacity. Their characteristic oval shape will be retained, while enhancing spectator viewing with new terracing and crush barriers.
Glentoran has submitted an application for support to the Northern Ireland Football Fund and is currently awaiting the outcome of the funding process.
