MCC Chairman Gerald Corbett has today unveiled the new Edrich Stand plaque at Lord’s Cricket Ground, as his final official act on his last day as MCC Chairman.
Former England cricketer Clare Connor unveiled the plaque of the adjacent redeveloped Compton Stand, one day ahead of becoming the Club’s new President.
The new stands complete the second phase of the Club’s plans to redevelop the Ground and future-proof the renowned cricket ground known as the Home of Cricket. The first phase included the reconstruction of the Warner Stand, which was officially opened by the late Duke of Edinburgh in 2017.
The Compton and Edrich stands, which have increased the Ground’s capacity to 31,180, sit either side of the iconic J.P. Morgan Media Centre, accommodating an additional 2,600 seats to hold 11,600.
The stands feature increased wheelchair accessible spaces and amenity seating, integrated washroom facilities throughout, food and beverage outlets at all levels, and a new shop. There is also an elevated walkway, linking the two stands together for the first time, and offers views over the Nursery Ground. Standing at 24 metres, the stands are now the tallest structures at the Ground, of three tiers and a canopy roof.
The second tier of the new stands houses two pitch-facing restaurants and designated premium seating for the ultimate cricket viewing experience. Compton’s restaurant offers a relaxed and informal lounge style dining, and The Edrich is run by Michelin-starred chef Tommy Banks during international matches.
Alongside the restaurants are two state-of-the-art hospitality suites for principal partners of MCC, J.P. Morgan. The completion of the stands this summer coincided with the global financial services firm’s sponsorship renewal with the Club which has been extended until 2024. The partnership with J.P. Morgan since 2011 is a significant factor in the redevelopment of Lord’s.
"The stands are a great achievement and an important part in future-proofing the Ground"
Guy Lavender, MCC Chief Executive & Secretary: “We have received some wonderful comments about the new stands and seeing them filled with cricket supporters on match days was a very pleasing scene.
"With increased capacity and accessibility, and excellent facilities, spectators sitting in these stands are treated to an unforgettable experience at Lord’s. The stands are a great achievement and an important part in future-proofing the Ground and it is with thanks to the MCC Committee and project team who have seen the project through to its completion.”
The ceremony took place in front of project team members who have seen the construction through from the proposal to its completion; including representatives from the award-winning architects: WilkinsonEyre who created the magnificent design, ISG who were responsible for the construction and Buro Happold, the structural engineering contractor, Arcadis, the quantity surveyors, and Gardiner & Theobald, the project managers.