The lead architects and engineers who will help shape the future of Australia’s most iconic stadium have been selected.

The Victorian Government has announced the lead design team that will guide the next phase of the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) redevelopment.

In particular, the government has announced that:

  • Architectus, in partnership with Foster + Partners and MANICA, has been appointed Lead Designer. The trio will provide advice on planning processes, how a new stand could be constructed and construction timelines.
  • Global infrastructure consulting firm AECOM has been appointed as Engineering Consultant and will support the design team.

The appointments follow last year’s announcement that the government would prepare a business case to consider options to renovate the MCG.

Often known as the ‘G’, the ground is Australia’s most iconic sporting venue.

It hosts the AFL Grand Final, the Boxing Day cricket, other sporting events and major concerts.

Potential options are still being explored.

However, the focus is expected to revolve around modernising the aging Shane Warne Stand, which was formerly known as the Great Southern Stand.

Built in 1992 as part of preparations for the 1992 Cricket World Cup, the stand is one of the stadium’s recognisable features.

According to various media reports, potential options include replacing the stand with a larger and more modern structure, boosting overall ground capacity, premium hospitality options (such as skyline bars, open-air decks and pub-style dining space), and upgrading lighting and facades.

The lead consultants will support the preparation of a $15 million business case, work on which commenced in October last year.

The business case will assess the current state of the stadium and precinct, including the Shane Warne stand.

It will outline potential options which could be considered.

A public consultation process will begin shortly.

The business case is due for completion in 2027.

Victorian Minister for Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulous welcomed the appointment.

“This is an important step for Australia’s most cherished sporting and major events venue” Dimopoulous said.

“We are the sports and major events capital. This business case will help ensure we know what’s required to maintain the MCG’s place as one of the most iconic stadiums in the world.”

 

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