The proposed $1 billion redevelopment of Victoria’s Melbourne Cricket Grounds (MCG) is a step closer to becoming a reality as the project marks new milestones with a concept image revealed and funding secured for the business case.
The State Government has committed $2 million to complete the business case for the redevelopment project. This is in addition to the funding allocated by the Melbourne Cricket Club.
The billion-dollar project will rebuild the southern stand – named the Shane Warne Stand – to increase the stadium’s capacity to 105,000 and include “best-in-class facilities” for event and non-event days.
“This funding will allow the MCC and the State Government to develop detailed plans around scope options, funding and timing for possible future redevelopment of the MCG.
“We have a shared commitment to ensuring the MCG remains the People’s Ground, a world-class stadium and caters to everyone’s evolving needs into the future,” Melbourne Cricket Club Chief Executive Stuart Fox said.
The new grandstand will help increase the height of the stadium and lights will be integrated into the roof, deeming the six iconic light towers of the MCG redundant but will still be retained and integrated into the new stand due to its heritage value.
The Shane Warne Stand will also feature new restaurants and bars as well as a possible hotel to help generate additional revenue to fund the project.
The new stand will also have decks facing Yarra Park, opening it up to its surroundings, and will also have better connections to transport links and potentially to the Melbourne and Olympic Parks precincts. In addition, new elite player facilities will also be incorporated into the stand.
“The MCG is our most iconic stadium and we’re working with the Melbourne Cricket Club and the Melbourne Cricket Ground Trust to plan what’s needed for decades to come,” Sports Minister Martin Pakula said.
Major works on the redevelopment project are anticipated to commence in 2027 following the opening ceremony for the 2026 Commonwealth Games to be held at the MCG as well as the possibility to host the final for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
The redevelopment is expected to be undertaken in sections, enabling the ground to still be used for major events such as the AFL Grand Final.
Source: AUStadiums; Fox Sports Australia