Worcestershire County Cricket Club have announced plans to re-develop two stands at the Diglis End of the New Road County Ground in Worcester. A planning application has been submitted to the City Council for the £450,000 project and it is hoped the project will be completed in time for the 2003 season.

Sport England, under the Safer Sports Ground programme, have confirmed a grant of up to £200,000 towards the project.

The re-development will increase seating capacity by over 700 and include a new scoreboard, bar and refreshment facilities, toilets and facilities for the disabled.

Chief Executive, Mark Newton, explains "Our facilities for the public are in need of an upgrade and new legislation means we currently fall below the guidelines required for disabled access and viewing. This development will enable us to meet these new standards and provide much improved viewing for the public. This year's day/night match saw a capacity crowd and we believe the introduction of 20/20 cricket next season will attract big audiences. New Road is without doubt one of the most beautiful grounds in the world and we believe the design of the new stands will ensure the unique charms of the ground are retained."

© Worcestershire CCC