Work has started on the £48m redevelopment of the Rose Bowl stadium near Southampton, which aims to transform the venue into a leading international cricket venue.

Two new stands - designed by EPR Architects in conjunction with The Miller Partnership - will be constructed either side of the existing pavilion as part of the project in order to increase the venue's permanent capacity to 15,000. Due for completion in April 2010 - ahead of the start of the new county cricket season, the new stands will be complimented by semi-permanent seating for major international matches to further increase capacity to 25,000.

The £9m stands will include catering and toilet facilities, a new retail store for Hampshire County Cricket Club (HCCC) and executive boxes and corporate lounges, as well as seating for Rose Bowl Silver Debenture holders. Funding for the construction of the stands has been raised through bank debt provided by Allied Irish Bank and equity, including a contribution from catering partner Compass. A debenture scheme has also raised funds for the scheme.

Northern Ireland-based McAleer and Rushe has been appointed to deliver the project, which is being managed by Drivers Jonas. Rose Bowl chair Rod Bransgrove said: "With Eastleigh Borough Council's continued support, and with its financial commitment to the new 175-bedroom hotel expected to be confirmed imminently, we are now well on the way to becoming one of the best cricket grounds in the world.

"Our ambition to reset standards for the cricket-watching public will soon be realised and I can't wait to see these fantastic new stands full of cheering fans, enjoying the world-class cricket we will have on offer over the coming seasons."