AFL axes Marvel Stadium architect but insists redevelopment on track

Two years after securing $225 million in Government funds to revamp Marvel Stadium, the AFL is yet to produce detailed plans. But it insists the project is on track despite axing a chief architect.

An artist’s impression of a redeveloped Marvel Stadium.

THE AFL insists its Marvel Stadium redevelopment is on track, despite parting ways with the high-profile project’s chief architect.

Two years after securing $225 million in Victorian taxpayer funds for the revamp, the league is yet to produce any detailed plans.

League chief Gillon McLachlan met with Sports Minister Martin Pakula earlier this month to update the Government on the project’s progress.

But the AFL flatly rejected suggestions it would be seeking any additional public funding.

“We are presently working through designs that encapsulate the whole precinct,”a league spokesman said.

“When finalised we can’t wait to showcase the designs to everyone and begin construction.

“The Marvel Stadium precinct will be one of the best sport and entertainment destinations in the world, with its proximity to the city and a world class entertainment and food offering pre-and post-event.”

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Drawings prepared in 2018 showing what a redeveloped Marvel Stadium could look like.

A Government spokesman said: “The AFL is progressing plans and we look forward to them being shared with the public in due course.”

The Andrews Government committed $225 million towards the Marvel Stadium rebuild in April 2018 in exchange for a guarantee that the AFL Grand Final stays in Melbourne until 2057.

The league was also gifted a prime waterfront site in the Docklands precinct for its headquarters at peppercorn prices.

Initial plans included a running track.

Initial drawings unveiled by the AFL two years ago included improved grandstands, a new waterside gateway, open-air bars, restaurants, parks, a running track and 1500-seat ballroom to host events such as the Brownlow Medal.

Community yoga classes on the Etihad playing surface were also spruiked.

The state opposition opposed the deal between the AFL and the government, arguing public funds would be better spent on grassroots sports.

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An AFL pitch document handed to the government in 2016 said the 54,000-capacity Docklands ground, which opened 20 years ago, was “tired and run down” and in need of a major revamp.

“It’s not fully integrated into the Docklands precinct, Melbourne’s CBD and the waterfront,” the document said.

“It does not provide a 365-day destination for the Victorian community. The stadium has never truly reached its potential.”

The AFL this week reported a profit of almost $50m for the 2019 season.

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Originally published as AFL axes Marvel Stadium architect but insists redevelopment on track