Perth Oval power struggle
VINCENT will fight hard to keep control of the State Government-funded redevelopment of Perth Oval in an effort to expedite the process and minimise impact on the surrounding community.
Sports Minister Terry Waldron recently confirmed the Government would back a progressive rebuild of the rectangular ground – commercially known as Members Equity Stadium – with the project expected to cost more than $160 million.
Vincent Mayor Nick Catania said the Town had already amassed information for its rejected $73 million application to rebuild the eastern stand and was now perfectly placed to take charge of the new development.
“If the State Government is sensible there is all this time that could be saved by us doing it,” Mr Catania said.
“It is better for them and better for taxpayers.”`
It is thought the government used Skilled Stadium on the Gold Coast – built over two years at a cost of $160 million and holding about 27,000 people – as inspiration for the overhaul.
Although specific details of the Perth Oval plan are scarce, elements of Vincent’s original makeover plan could be incorporated in the Government’s vision.
Mr Catania said the Town would also be in the best position to control the associated issues arising from the new larger project’s various stages
He cited provision of parking, increased noise, traffic flow around the ground and public transport demands as future concerns.
“With the development of each stage we will have to deal with people using it,” he said of the capacity increase of 17,000 to about 25,000 during the staggered redevelopment.
“If we are in charge we are better able to plan as each stage goes ahead.”
He said the last thing he wanted was for the Town to lose control of the project, only to be left with the associated problems of the larger facility.
Consultation between the Government and the Town of Vincent will continue, with costs, time frames and management to be hammered out over the next 12 months.
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