Beijing architects given Lord146;s redevelopment work

The plan is expected to cost between 200 to 250 million pounds.

Key aims include increasing the capacity of Lord8217;s to between 35,000 to 40,000 from its current 28,500 and the installation of permanent but retractable floodlights which would enable the ground to stage day/night international atches.

A spokesman for the scheme told AFP today that, once detailed talks between MCC and the architects had been concluded, an application for planning permission to the local Westminster Council would be submitted in the autumn of 2009.

Carrying out the Masterplan could see the tunnels under Lord8217;s used to house indoor net facilities while residential development at the Wellington Road ends of the ground could provide funds for improvements elsewhere on the site. It also includes the option of a 8216;Lord8217;s Hotel8217;.

Recent years have seen some striking developments at Lord8217;s, notably the new high-tech media centre which now dominates the Nursery End of the ground.

Basel-based Herzog and de Meuron were also responsible for designing the Allianz Arena, home of German football giants Bayern Munich.