IT’S BEEN IN the pipeline for some time but the redevelopment of Brandywell stadium will finally begin this year.
Derry City chairman Philip O’Doherty has revealed the diggers will start work on 28 May as the first stage of the €13 million (£10 million) redevelopment will see the demolition of the Glentoran Stand on the west side of the ground.
Work is expected to continue throughout the SEE Airtricity League season, which kicks-off on 6 March, with 2016 earmarked as the date of completion.
O’Doherty said is was a ‘welcome relief’ that work is to get under-way after plans had been in place for several years.
“For the past couple of years we’ve been working very closely with Derry city council and we wanted to give the fans some information,” he told BBC Northern Ireland.
“It’s like a late Christmas present to be finally be told the start date.”
In addition to the building of a new stand, new changing rooms and office space, a 4G playing surface will be installed.
“We need better facilities for the fans, especially for the players and the coaching staff. The football club are also hoping to get a corporate hospitality area to give a better experience for our sponsors and help raise money as well,” O’Doherty continued.
The project is co-funded by Derry City Council and Stormont government. The ground’s current capacity is 2,900 seats and is used for both football and greyhound racing.
