Grand plan to build new AFL ground opposite MCG opposed
A fight has erupted over the plan to bulldoze Etihad Stadium and build a new AFL ground opposite the MCG.
The idea was proposed by Collingwood President Eddie McGuire but has received a frosty reception from tennis officials, who say it could damage the Australian Open.
Mr McGuire doesn't do things by halves: “This is the opportunity to do what governor La Trobe did 160 years ago when we founded the MCG”.
Under his plan, Hisense Arena would make way for a new 60,000-seat state-of-the-art stadium opposite the MCG making it one of the world's leading sports precincts.
“This is about providing the best facilities for the people of Melbourne, for our sporting institutions, and making it work for us,” he said.
McGuire's masterplan would also see Richmond Station move underground with a tunnel replacing Olympic Boulevard.
Victoria Premier Daniel Andrews said it warrants thought.
“I'm certainly keen to have a very close look at what might be done to make sure we don't just have a good sport precinct but that we have the very, very best”.
But the AFL would have to sell Etihad Stadium to pay for the project.
“We'll own Etihad for $30 in 9 years time so at some point you have to consider all types of options,” AFL Chief Executive Gillon McLachlan said.
Tennis Australia officials are bemused by the plans.
They are part-way through a $700m re-development of the Melbourne Park precinct and fear any new development could hinder the Australian Open.
“The Australian Tennis Open has a long term contract to provide the Open here in Melbourne. Anything that puts at risk that contract is simply non-negotiable,” former premier Jeff Kennett said.
He also believes a new stadium would also create crowd chaos and does not give Mr McGuire’s plan much hope.
“There’s as much likelihood of Collingwood winning a Grand Final in the next five years - none at all,” he said.
News break – March 9
