RUGBY'S NEW HOME.

Auckland Star, Volume XLIII, Issue 267, 7 November 1912, Page 5

RUGBY'S NEW HOME.

EDEN PARK SECURED. BIG IMPROVEMENT SCHEME. For some time past negotiations have teen proceeding between the Auckland Cricket Association and the Auckland Rugby Union, in respect to Eden Park, which was recently purchased by the Association from the Eden District Cricket Club. The purchase money ran into some thousands of pounds, and, in order to assist in the financing of the undertaking, the Association decided to secure the co-operation of one of the winter sports bodies, and at a conference held last evening between the committee of the Auckland Rugby Union and delegates from the Auckland Cricket Association, arrangements were practically concluded whereby the Rugby Union secure a. lease of the ground for 21 years.

Eden Park is most centrally situated, being within the 2d section, and U an ideal ground for both summer and winter games. It was purchased some years ago by the Eden District Cricket Club, who, by dint of hard work and energy on the part of th<j officials, succeeded in turning it into a first-class cricket ground. The question of its upkeep, however, was always a source of difficulty to the club, and some few months ago it was decided to dispose of it to the Auckland Cricket Association.

The securing of the least by the Rugby Union 'will mean that a big improvement scheme will be entered on, and. though nothing definite has yet been decided upon, it is practically a certainty that the playing area will be enlarged, and that an up-to-date pavilion will be erected, large enousjh to seat several thousands. Numerous other works will also be taken in hand, and nothing will be left undone to make it the leading sports ground in Auckland-