Rose Bowl transformation gets go-ahead

The Rose Bowl will undergo a multi-million pound development project ahead of its first Test in 2011 after the local council agreed to provide £30million of funding.

Eastleigh borough council will finance the construction of a 175-room hotel and conference centre which is part of an overall £48million plan. The development also includes more covered stands which will increase the permanent capacity by 5000 to 15000.

Council leader Keith House said: "The council's decision will guarantee the successful completion of the project transforming the ground and making the borough of Eastleigh the home of the country's newest Test venue."

The development will provide over 200 jobs, and major building works are due to be completed in September 2010.

Access to the venue, which has been a problem for major events, is also being improved with a second road being built to the stadium.