The first stage in plans by the Leinster Branch of the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) to redevelop rugby facilities in Donnybrook have been given the all clear.

An Bord Pleanála has given the green light to demolish obsolete buildings and build a new three-storey building containing changing rooms, and a hospitality/entertainment suite.

The existing Old Wesley clubhouse would be renovated and upgraded as part of this proposal.

No decision, however, has yet been made on a larger planning application seeking permission to build 111 apartments in eight blocks and new clubhouse facilities on a six-acre site off the Donnybrook Road where the Leinster team plays some of its matches.

This plan would involve demolishing the Bective Rangers football and lawn tennis clubhouse and replacing it with a new three-storey clubhouse with a gym, offices, kitchens, a bar and a television and media press box.

It would also involve the construction of a new viewing stand and two entrance stiles from Donnybrook Road as well as additional terracing, four tennis courts, practice courts, a scrummage area and a 452-metre long river walkway linking Anglesea Bridge with Herbert Park.