The IRFU have confirmed that Thomond Park will be redeveloped as a 26,000-seater stadium, thereby ending speculation that the home of Limerick and, for Heineken European Cup fare, Munster rugby might move elsewhere in the city.

The stadium that staged Munster's great victory over the All Blacks in 1978, the Miracle Match defeat of Gloucester in 2003, this season's drubbing of Sale Sharks and many more great occasions, is to receive a massive face-lift. No figures were mentioned, but the work will start next January and is likely to take 18 months.

It is envisaged that during the revamp Munster will play Celtic League and European Cup home games at Musgrave Park.

The Thomond Park decision could not have been made without the co-operation of local residents, who agreed to support the venture after some initial misgivings.

News of the redevelopment came through an official statement: "The Munster Branch IRFU development committee is delighted to confirm, following its consideration of the draft feasibility study conducted by Arup Consulting Engineers, that Thomond Park has been unanimously nominated as the most favourable venue for the provision of a 26,000 capacity rugby stadium.

"It is proposed that full details of the new project will be announced at a media conference in Thomond Park when outline drawings of the new stadium are available.

"The development committee wishes to express its gratitude to the residents of Knockalisheen Road, without whose co-operation the preference to retain Thomond Park . . . might have been jeopardised.

"The development committee further acknowledges the indication by Limerick City Council of their support for the project."