Demolition work has begun on the old grandstand at Casement Park, marking another step forward in the long-delayed redevelopment of the historic west Belfast stadium.
Heavy machinery has moved onto the Andersonstown site to begin dismantling parts of the existing structure as preparations continue for the planned reconstruction of the venue.
Casement Park has been closed since 2013 after safety concerns were raised about the condition of the stadium.
Since then, plans have been developed to replace the ageing ground with a modern stadium designed to host major sporting events.
The redevelopment project has been the subject of years of political debate, planning challenges and funding discussions.
Casement Park is traditionally home to Antrim GAA and has long been considered one of the most significant Gaelic games venues in Northern Ireland/The North.
Supporters of the redevelopment say the new stadium will provide a modern sporting facility capable of hosting large crowds and major events.
The project has also been linked to wider plans for hosting international sporting competitions, including matches connected to UEFA Euro 2028, which the UK and Ireland are scheduled to host.
However, the redevelopment has also faced criticism and delays over issues including funding, planning approval and concerns raised by local residents.
With demolition now underway on the grandstand, the visible changes at the site signal that redevelopment activity is progressing once again.
Construction work on the new stadium is expected to follow as the wider project moves through its next stages.
Casement Park has played a major role in the history of Gaelic games in Belfast for decades, and its redevelopment is widely seen as a significant moment for the future of the sport in the region.
