Fans criticise ‘landlording’ IRFU after expansion D4 housing kingdom

A touchy topic.

The property is in Havelock Square, which is situated behind the small north stand of the stadium, which could not be expanded due to planning permission.

It is the ninth house bought by the IRFU in Havelock Square, which has 40 homes in total.

The IRFU have defended the purchasing and renting of the properties, saying:  “The IRFU has, for many years, taken a strategic approach to property. The union has been buying properties in the area around the vicinity of the stadium since the 1930s, primarily to secure the boundary of the stadium."

IRFU CEO Kevin Potts also addressed speculation as to whether the properties were being bought up with plans to expand the north stand.

He said: “No, no. I guess we’d all like to see it increase, but I don’t think that’s viable for all sorts of planning reasons."

Fans have disagreed on social media over the actions of rugby's governing body.

I can only assume it’s to eventually replace the ridiculous small end, the most farcical stand I can think of in football. If that’s the reason then it’s good to read about this.

— Vincent (@Vincent32418497) November 30, 2025

If it’s part of the street behind the low stand then they intend purchasing all those properties and rising that end of the ground maybe 🤔

— Flann Carroll (@carroll_fla) November 30, 2025

Nothing like a sporting organization beating out a family on a two bedroom home.

Sums up rugby as a sport.

— DLS Media (@DLSportingMedia) November 30, 2025

Can’t afford to fund the entire men’s 7’s programme, but for the same price can afford to invest in more D4 property…

— Gerard (@Gerard26956480) November 30, 2025