Principality Stadium to undergo two-phase redevelopment with famous roof set to change beyond recognition
WALES' iconic Principality Stadium is set for a major makeover.
The arena was built in 1999 but risks falling behind compared to modern stadium standards.
Welsh Rugby Union CEO Abi Tierney revealed there are plans to renovate the stadium in order to attract international events.
A major change will see solar panels added to the roof to cut the cost of their "huge" energy bills and make the stadium more environmentally friendly.
Tierney revealed there will be two phases to the plan as Wales Rugby seeks to improve hospitality at the ground by attracting new investment.
Tierney told the Welsh Parliament: "What we have is the stadium which acts as an asset in Cardiff where we can bring lots of international events.
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"You can't help but realise what an iconic venue it is but it's 25 years old now and there is a real danger of it falling behind in terms of what it offers when you see the most recent example of Everton's new stadium.
"There's lots of coverage around Fulham's new stadium and then you've got Ajax and the stadiums in Spain.
"We are doing two phases. I agree that we need to absolutely catch up and stay ahead of the game to continue to attract world events.
"Firstly I'm going out for procurement for our new partner in terms of delivering our hospitality and events there.
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"We are hoping to announce that in September of this year and our current partnership there is one of the bidders but we are looking for real world class and best in practice examples there.
"So, that's phase one. Also, now we have the finances of the WRU in a much better position we are looking to secure further investment going forward in a much more strategic redevelopment of the stadium that really takes it forward over the next 25 years.
"That will be a phase two that will start to come next year and we will be working with our planners to look at that."
The Principality Stadium has a capacity of 74,000 and primarily hosts the Welsh rugby team.
The venue is also used for major concerts, hosting Oasis this summer.