The Oval – design description

After 129 years at the Oval, in 2021 Glentoran FC filed their planning application to entirely demolish the old ground and build anew. The historical ground is to lose all of its existing sections, as well as the oval shape itself, replaced by a more rectangular one. But the proportions of existing sections are to be retained, with a dominant main stand in the south, smaller covered opposite straight and terracing behind goals.

The main stand will reach the height of 20 rows with front row elevated above field level. The stand will house almost all facilities, spread across three levels. The north side will be slightly smaller, with 7 rows of seating. However, behind the auditorium there’s room not only for kiosks and toilets, also for nearly 200 m² of retail space. In total, the stadium is to hold 6,000 people after redevelopment, including 4,000 seated and covered, as well as 2,000 on terracing.

The revamp also includes replacement of the natural field with a 3G surface. Additionally, the project includes new, increased parking capacity, perimeter fencing and turnstiles. Financing is expected to come from the sub-regional stadium reconstruction programme, but also from Glentoran FC’s own resources.