Environment Minister Mark H Durkan has granted planning permission for a new stadium at Casement Park.

As a result, the Ulster Council of the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) can now build a new 38,000 capacity stadium on their existing site on the Andersonstown Road, Belfast.

Sports Minister, Carál Ní Chuilín described the announcement as a key milestone in the development of her regional sports stadiums programme which follows the Executive pledge of up to £110m of government funding for the redevelopment of three sports stadiums at Ravenhill, Windsor Park and Casement Park.

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Mr Durkan said: "This is a tremendous boost for Gaelic games and for sport here. Planning approval will now lead to the creation of a modern sports stadium with improved facilities and increased spectator comfort. The new stadium is a high quality design which will be a recognised landmark building which will assist with the ongoing regeneration of the Andersonstown Road and boost the city of Belfast.

"This stadium will have the potential to host cross-provincial matches usually played at Croke Park or Clones. This will boost sports tourism and the economy in the North. Jobs during the construction phase and additional jobs for the daily management are to be welcomed.

"This has not however been an easy decision. Having met with local residents I understand their concerns about the impact of the proposal. As Environment Minister for the whole of the North, my decision cannot ignore the regional benefits that will result from the development of this stadium and how it fits with the Executive's programme for government."

(CD/JP)