Ulster plan to embark on the first phase of the Ravenhill redevelopment project by the end of the year, the province announced today.

Work is due to start on a new €5.7 million stand, on the site of the current terraced side of the ground, in November. Ulster chief executive Michael Reid expects the stand to be open by September of next year.

The new stand will at the back of the existing terrace with roughly two-thirds of the current standing area retained.

"It's imperative that we improve the facilities at Ravenhill" said Reid today. "An investment in our facilities is absolutely vital if we are to cement our position and compete"

The new stand will mark the first of four phases as Ulster modernise the Belfast venue and will include corporate boxes a number of premium level seats.