Ulster Rugby will commence installation of a 3G pitch at Kingspan Stadium this summer after their application was granted full planning permission by Belfast City Council.
The club revealed the successful application was the culmination of "extensive research and exploratory work" over the past 18 months.
There was some local objection to the project though with residents concerned about HGV traffic having an impact upon old foundations in residential areas, its impact upon wildlife, trees, and hedges.
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Elected representatives passed the application at the Planning Committee with only two councillors voting against.
Ulster Rugby says it will continue to liaise with key stakeholders, including local residents with installation set to commence this summer ahead of the 2023/24 season.
Last December Ulster's home game against La Rochelle was moved to the Aviva Stadium in Dublin because of a frozen pitch.
Ulster CEO, Johnny Petrie believes the new surface will have a "positive impact" on the community and the sport.
"Kingspan is the home of Ulster Rugby," he said. "This pitch will be of the highest spec and will have a positive impact on the community and sport with long term benefits.
"The pitch is central to supporting sustainability within the sport."
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