Edgbaston cricket ground. (Photo Source: X(Twitter)

The loan facility was approved by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) to cover the plans proposed by the Warwickshire County Cricket Club. With this, the stadium will undergo a refurbishment as it develops a new spectator stand alongside a new four-star hotel. The stadium is now poised to acquire the remaining funding for the redevelopment process, and it is expected that the construction will begin in September 2025. The authorities will consult with stakeholders, including local residents and club members, in the next six months, prior to the submission of the proposed plan in the autumn. It is anticipated that the project will be completed by Spring 2027 as it will also be the time when the hotel begins functioning for the Ashes. BAN vs SL: Wanindu Hasaranga's Test comeback derailed by ICC Disciplinary action, gets suspended for Bangladesh Tests The four-star hotel will feature amenities such as a rooftop terrace, pitch-view rooms with balconies, and rooms for hospitality boxes equipped with terraces to watch matches, according to the proposed plan. Meanwhile, the new stand will get a new concourse offering enhanced food and beverage choices. Apart from this, it will also provide upgraded facilities for disabled spectators. We're grateful to WMCA: Stuart Cain Upon the approval of the loan, Stuart Cain, Edgbaston's chief executive, expressed gratitude to WMCA. Josh Inglis eager to win first Sheffield Shield title with Western Australia "Getting the funding in place is crucial. We're grateful to WMCA for making this contribution and backing our ambition to continue bringing major economic and social benefits to the region through international sport. Once the remaining funding is secured, we will consult with the local community and members on our plans. Cricket will always stay at the heart of our thinking, but it's important we develop a stadium that brings new jobs to this part of the city and creates wider community opportunities through the hotel and an expanded conferencing and events business that sits alongside world-class sport," Cain was quoted as saying by The Construction Index.