- MCC members approve a £61.8 million redevelopment plan for Lord’s Cricket Ground.
- Construction is to commence in September, aiming for completion by 2027.
- The project includes the demolition and reconstruction of the Allen and Tavern Stands.
- Emphasis on sustainability with a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ standard and carbon emissions reduction.
- Architectural design blends heritage preservation with modern innovation.
- The redevelopment signifies MCC’s commitment to maintaining Lord’s as a world-class sporting venue.
The iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground often hailed as the ‘Home of Cricket,’ is set to undergo a significant transformation with plans approved for a £61.8 million redevelopment. The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) members gave their overwhelming support to the project, signaling a new chapter in the history of this revered sporting venue.
MCC members, numbering 18,000, voted in favor of the redevelopment plan, which aims to enhance not only the infrastructure but also the overall experience for spectators. The project entails the demolition and reconstruction of the Allen Stand, accompanied by the addition of an extra tier. Furthermore, the Tavern Stand will witness the construction of a fourth level, elevating the ground’s capacity by 1,100 seats.
Timeline and Construction
Scheduled to commence after the current cricket season in September, the construction phase is projected to span until 2027. John Graham Construction Ltd has been chosen as the preferred bidder for the main contract, signifying a meticulous approach towards the project’s execution. Despite the ambitious timeline, pauses have been factored in to accommodate cricket fixtures during the 2025 and 2026 seasons.
😍 Plans have been approved by Members for @MCCOfficial to redevelop the Tavern and Allen stands at Lord’s.
— Lord's Cricket Ground (@HomeOfCricket) May 9, 2024
The £61.8m project will provide improved catering, hospitality and accessibility, increasing the overall ground capacity by an additional 1,100 seats.#LoveLords
Enhancements and Sustainability
The redevelopment aims not only to bolster the seating capacity but also to introduce enhanced amenities such as catering, hospitality, and accessibility facilities. Embracing sustainability, the project is designed to meet the BREEAM ‘Excellent’ standard, with a focus on minimizing environmental impact. Retaining the steel framework of the Tavern Stand is a testament to this commitment, estimated to save a significant amount of carbon emissions.
The architectural vision behind the redevelopment marries innovation with heritage preservation. Inspired by traditional slip cradles, the unique roof profile of the Tavern Stand, designed by WilkinsonEyre, pays homage to cricket’s rich legacy while embracing modernity. Furthermore, the project includes the demolition and reconstruction of a link bridge, seamlessly integrating the new structures with the Pavilion.
Implications and Outlook
The approval of this redevelopment project underscores MCC’s dedication to maintaining Lord’s Cricket Ground as a premier sporting venue on the global stage. Beyond enhancing facilities, the project signifies a commitment to sustainability, innovation, and preserving the rich heritage of cricket. As construction commences, stakeholders eagerly anticipate the dawn of a new era at the iconic Home of Cricket.
