Plans "to build a retractable roof over ANZ Stadium and reconfigure its seating to create a perfect rectangle for watching rugby league, rugby union and football are set to move closer to fruition, with consortiums asked to submit tenders for the proposed upgrade," according to Brad Walter of the SYDNEY MORNING HERALD.
An advertisement placed by Stadium Australia Operations in Thursday's Australian Financial Review "calls for expressions of interest in the project to develop the masterplan unveiled last July" by then New South Wales Minister for Sport Graham Annesley.
Among the proposed improvements for Sydney's biggest stadium are:
- A retractable roof to weather-proof events;
- Moveable grandstands at the northern and southern ends to bring spectators within five meters of the field of play on all sides of the stadium;
- New and refurbished player and spectators facilities, including restaurants and bars; and,
- Development of the precint outside the stadium, which is expected to include more new bars, cafes and restaurants (SMH, 2/13).
In Sydney, Phil Rothfield reported the National Rugby League "is backing the move." NRL CEO Dave Smith said, "We have fallen behind the other states in terms of delivering world class stadiums." While "the ability to turn ANZ Stadium into a rectangle with moving stands" suits the NRL, Australian Rugby Union and football, there "are also plans to increase the eastern and western boundaries to provide longer straight-hit boundaries in cricket and a more traditional oval shape" for the Australian Football League (
DAILY TELEGRAPH, 2/12).
