WORCESTERSHIRE County Cricket Club today revealed a £450,000 development plan for two stands at the Diglis end of their New Road ground.

A planning application has been submitted to Worcester City Council and it is hoped the project will be completed in time for next season.

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

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

Upgrade

The County's Chief Executive Mark Newton said: "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."

The plans were discussed at a members' forum which followed the first day's play of Worcestershire's County Championship match against Middlesex at New Road last night.

Newton said: "Inevitably with something like this there is a mixed reaction and there were one or two against it. But I think the majority in the room realised why we are doing it and accepted it. But there is always resistance to change because it is such a beautiful ground."

The forum was attended by around 100 members who were also told of progress in the County's bid to capture two overseas players for next season.

No signings have yet been made but the potential targets will be 'on an upward curve' and not necessarily current internationals.