Up to €30 million of funding for the Páirc Uí Chaoimh redevelopment has been put in doubt after issues were raised with the long term viability of a 45,000 capacity ground.
The Irish Independent this morning reports that the proposed €70 million redevelopment has hit a serious snag after a cost-benefit analysis sent to the government was deemed to not meet the required standard.
The primary problem seen by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform is that the County Board's projections for non-sporting events such as concerts may be 'overly optimistic'.
With the GAA stumping up the remaining €40 million for the project it is not thought that this snag will hold up the imminent redevelopment according to Cork County Board chairman, Ger Lane.
We are driving on anyway. The stadium isn't in doubt. That is for sure. It will be built.
Having said that, the withholding of the promised funds does mean that the extent of the project may need to reassessed should a new cost-benefit analysis meet similar opposition.
Debate has flared regarding the redevelopment with many believing that a 45,000 capacity stadium is not needed in Cork and Munster. However, many have countered that opinion with the belief that a stadium of such size will allow high profile events to take place outside Dublin, something which is not possible with existing infrastructure.
