Timetable: The Government has set a timetable of 10 weeks from now for lodging a planning application for the redevelopment of Lansdowne Road.
The developers hope work will begin in spring 2007, with the project due to be completed within 27 months.
The first of the logistical difficulties will be in appeasing the local residents, though for all the consultative process, Philip Browne, chairman of the Lansdowne Road Stadium Development Company, is under no illusions they will face an appeal with An Bord Pleanála.
"I think it would be foolish to plan otherwise with a building of this size," said Mr Browne.
Discussions have been taking place with CIÉ and Irish Rail about the demolition, which will have to take place over the Dart line, although ultimately "we hope to alleviate the problem for Irish Rail for evermore by taking the stadium completely off the Dart line".
An Iarnród Éireann spokesman said it was concerned about the potential impact on services during construction. However, he said the inclusion of underpasses for commuters in the design offered benefits in the long run. He said Irish Rail could not say how long services might be disrupted for until it received more detailed plans.
The asbestos in the roof panels of the West Stand, typical of buildings in the 1950s, will not add significantly to the cost, Mr Browne said.
"This is a big bang project, whereas Croke Park was a phased project," he added, confirming that the ground will be closed for the duration of the development.
The preferred destination for games when the ground is closed is Croke Park and to that end negotiations with the GAA have already started.
"Hopefully we can sort out an arrangement there," said Mr Browne. "If that works, that will be great. I think it is everyone's preference and hopefully all three organisations can work together, and I'm sure that they can."
Mr Browne does not foresee any difficulties with the tenant clubs, Lansdowne and Wanderers, whom the union are helping to find a temporary alternative facility as well as financial compensation.
When the new design is completed, there will be one back pitch as opposed to two.
