Brit Oval embarks on phase two

Surrey County Cricket Club has announced its phase two development plans for the Brit Oval.

The proposals comprise demolishing the existing Surrey Tavern, opening up the front entrance to the ground to feature a piazza, and replacing the existing Lock and Laker stands with a new stand featuring a further 2,000 seats.

In addition, the club will build a four-star hotel in partnership with the Arora International Hotel Group.

Stadia architects HOK Sport have designed the project, which is due to be completed by the end of 2009, in time for the next Ashes series.

Lambeth council and landlord the Duchy of Cornwall have announced their support in principle for the project.

Paul Sheldon, chief executive of the club, said: “There is intense pressure on all grounds that host international cricket to provide high-quality facilities for both members and visitors. It is therefore vital that the Brit Oval continues to strive to produce the best viewing and spectator facilities of any cricket stadium in the world.”

Surinder Arora, Arora chair, added: “We are delighted to be working with the Brit Oval to transform the pavilion end of the cricket ground with a hotel and more seating. We see this as a truly wonderful partnership that would bring further employment opportunities to the area.”

Phase one included building the OCS stand in 2005 at the Vauxhall end of the ground. Details: www.surreycricket.com