Investment boost for SCG

AFL.com.au

The Sydney Swans have welcomed the news of a $186 million refurbishment of the SCG which will increase capacity at the ground, despite its short-term effect on crowd numbers.

The announcement was made by prime minister Julia Gillard and New South Wales premier Barry O’Farrell on Tuesday morning and will see maximum capacity boosted from 45,000 to 48,000 and ensure up to 85 per cent of seating is undercover.

However, the work will also severely disrupt the Swans during construction, with the Noble, Bradman and Messenger Stands to be replaced at the ground.

Capacity at the ground is expected to be reduced from 45,000 to 34,000 at the height of construction.

According to details in an investment newsletter, Swans CEO Andrew Ireland said the work, part of a three stage master plan that will later include upgraded training and administration facilities, would have long-term benefits despite the short-term pain.

“The SCG is a fantastic stadium and, sure, we are losing some of the capacity,” Ireland told the Herald Sun. “But there will still be ample good seating at the ground.

“We welcome the redevelopment as part of a significant step towards our members and fans being able to watch the Swans play at a world class venue.”

AFL chief operating officer Gillon McLachlan praised the decision.

“We wish to thank most sincerely the New South Wales and federal governments for their funding commitment to the project along with the SCG Trust,” McLachlan said.

The announcement follows the decision by the NSW government to develop a light rail service from Sydney to the eastern suburbs which will significantly boost public transport to the SCG precinct.

At the announcement, O’Farrell said the SCG was “looking tired”.

“I’m suggesting that frankly, when you compare parts of this ground now to other stadiums around the country, it doesn’t come up to scratch,” O’Farrell said.

“What this $186 million will do is ensure this is a first class stadium again.

“This is a win for cricket and AFL fans and the upgrade will create hundreds of jobs during its construction.”

Demolition will begin in March, with renovations expected to be finished in time for the 2014 season.