AN ICONIC stadium is set for a £1billion revamp with its capacity jumping to 105,000 and a legend’s tribute stand modernised.
The Melbourne Cricket Ground, better known as the MCG, is situated in the Australian state of Victoria.
PA:Empics SportThe MCG is set for a major £1billion upgrade[/caption]
Getty Images – GettyThe iconic cricket stadium will see its capacity increased to 105,000 seats[/caption]
It is one of the most recognisable grounds in the world thanks to its impressive size and history as a top venue for sports and music.
The MCG has also long been associated with cricket, having played host to both the first-ever Test match and One Day International.
On a good day, the arena packs in 95,000 eager fans into its seats.
But after being originally opened in 1853, the MCG is now set for a new look.
It’s already undergone two redevelopments, the first occurring in 1992 and the second in 2006.
However, plans have now been unveiled for a third restructure costing an eye-watering £1bn.
Chiefs are looking to expand capacity by 10,000, meaning that 105,000 seats would be available for punters.
And to do this, they want to modernise the iconic Shane Warne Stand, named after the Aussie cricket legend who tragically died in March 2022 at the age of 52.
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It’s reckoned that freshening up the block would not only create more space inside the MCG, but would also ease congestion outside the ground.
According to reports, it would open up large passageways in the northern section of the arena too.
The stand named after Aussie cricket legend Shane Warne will have a new lookAFP
And the extra space would also see the creation of new social dining areas.
Meanwhile, the new Shane Warne Stand is expected to provide new 180 degree-views over Melbourne’s Yarra Park, which is based in the city’s south-east.
And there could even be a new hotel built behind it as well.
Planning development is yet to be approved, with a £7million business case being funded by Melbourne Cricket Club and the Victorian government.
But work would not start on redevelopment until 2030.
It’s reckoned the project will take at least two or three years to complete.
And chiefs also hope to improve other areas at the stadium including roof lighting seating and public amenities.
When work begins, it could see the MCG’s capacity drop from 95,000 to 70,000.
But this would allow it to continue hosting major events such as the AFL’s Grand Final.
However, the grand result would be a stadium boasting 105,000 seats — making it the fifth largest arena in the world.
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