Speaking about the development plans, Niall O'Driscoll, the Chairman of the Development Committee, commented: "Wr have now decided to drive ahead with the development to bring the capacity eventually to something between 18,000 and 20,000.

"All along we were looking to have permission for the entire project, but we have now decided to start with what we have permission for, and then to continue that around the ground.

"At this stage, it is essential to have an overall plan to provide a start-of-the-art stadium for our supporters, for the people of Cork and the people of Munster."

Phase 1 of this development is to build a 6,000 capacity stand, replacing the existing West Stand and West Terrace.

This will incorporate dressing roomds, medical room facilities and a weights room on the ground floor, with Branch offices and hospitality facilities on the first floor.

Phase 2, which is subject to a number of factors, is to develop a further 6,000 capacity stand on the East side with North and South stands, delivering a 20,000 capacity stadium.

Full plans of the project will be outlined at a later date.