An aerial view of the proposed stadium at Casement Park

THE stalled Casement project has so far cost more than £8.4m before construction has even begun.

Work was due to start two years ago, but in 2014 planning approval for the original design was quashed in a High Court legal challenge.

The scheme then became embroiled in controversy over emergency exit plans after a safety expert in 2015 raised concerns about the initial proposals.

The spending was revealed by the Department for Communities (DfC) in response to a freedom of information request from The Irish News.

The stadium is due to cost around £77m including £62m of public funds, but it is unclear if the cost will increase because of delays.

Asked for the overall projected cost to the department, DfC said: "This information is currently not held.

"As part of the ongoing planning process the GAA design team are currently working on finalising costings associated with the revised project design."

The spending has included more than £6.7m on 'integrated consultant and integrated supply teams and pre-development'.

Almost £1.2m was spent on 'project employment, technical and governance costs', and more than £470,000 on legal fees.

Ulster GAA president Michael Hasson has said the new stadium will create jobs and become a "vibrant cultural hub" for the area.