The seating capacity of the County Ground in Derby is set to increase by 2,000 under new redevelopment proposals announced by Derbyshire County Cricket Club (DCCC).

A new permanent marquee is also planned as part of the £500,000 project, which will enable the venue to cope with larger cricket fixtures, as well as providing space for dinner and dance functions capable of accommodating up to 300 people. DCCC intends to submit a planning application to the local authority in order to carry out the work in time for the start of the 2010 season to form the first phase of an ongoing scheme to redevelop the County Ground.

Work has already been carried out to improve entrances to the venue and the demolition of the Old Jockey's Quarters ahead of the 2009 season, while future improvements could include an additional 2,000 seats, the refurbishment of the players' dressing rooms and upgraded media facilities. Keith Loring, DCCC chief executive, said: "Ahead of 2010, the club is able to do a little bit more and the extra 2,000 seats will be a welcome addition to our ground for big match days, which already attract crowds of 5,000.

"The permanent marquee will also be an impressive addition to the appearance of the ground and will help us continue to compete at the forefront of the conference and banqueting sector in Derbyshire - an area of our business which is growing year on year." Image: David Griffin