Take too long to explain
But basically it looks like they are going to bodge the stadium up to maximise the IMG points.

But not start the work until the end on next season

I reckon they can’t knock the main stand down until the next round of IMG scores.(October 2024) they would lose the points from the main stand.
The the other seats, lighting etc will be done at the end of the 2024 season to maximise their grades but if they have planning permission by then… then much of it is likely to be pulled down shortly afterwards because they will want to start on the stadium.which is why they are likely to spend the Bare minimum on anything they bodge up.
Hiring seats would be cheaper than having to put seating in.

Their build isn't even properly funded due to the Environment Agencies objection and the cost of meeting their demands.

The earliest planning permission could go in is January, it seems, and we all know how that process isn't straight forward.

Then the time taken to get contracts in place etc...then timing builds to have the least affect on the on-going business...

Cas won't be scoring improved IMG stadium points for at least 3 years.

They genuinely do have a problem - I'm not gleeful but if they manage to get points by using sticky tape on what they have got then the joke is on the RFL.

Some would argue that our 20+ years of "dispensation" are equally a joke then they may have a point...

If it was done before the cut off date the bodge job they are proposing actually would get them the points required for next year. It makes a farce of the whole system.

Even the changes they seem to think they can make as a "sticking plaster", need planning permission, money and time.

IMG will see through their nonsense.

This is why I asked pop Tart (who’s clued up on this) what the rules were around what was considered to be ground improvements and a bodge up ? ….if there are any in place even..

I haven't looked yet. I'm currently sunning myself in Malta but will check. I don't think it comments on quality of seat for Joe punter, only press and sponsors.

As you say though, they can put temporary seats in but it reduces space elsewhere so only helps to a certain extent. I'm not sure what value they'll get with all the effort needed to get it.

It specifically says you have to have 2,000 'permanent' seats and they have to be agreed by stadium advisory group.

Not sure what they have in their stand but I think its 1500.
They lose a whole point if they don't get that. Which makes me wonder how their score is as high as it is.