Irish FA Receives Go-Ahead On Proposal To Renovate Windsor Park Home Ground

The redevelopment of Windsor Park "has moved a step closer" after the Irish FA received confirmation that its proposals have received planning permission, according to the BELFAST TELEGRAPH. A proposed extensive revamp of Northern Ireland's home ground, also that of Irish League champions Linfield, "has been undergoing public consultation in recent months and a final plan was submitted in December." The approved plans will see Windsor Park "expanded to a capacity of 18,000 with all four stands being renovated, replaced or -- in the case of the south stand -- rebuilt from scratch, with work due to begin in September." The total cost is estimated at £29.2M ($43.8M), £25.2M ($37.8M) of which is being funded by the Irish FA. The project is due to be complete by summer '15 (BELFAST TELEGRAPH, 2/20).