A massive upgrade of the Bulldogs’ home ground set for state support worth $37m
The Andrews Government will kick in $37 million to redevelop the home of the Western Bulldogs and build a new EJ Whitten stand with broadcast-quality lights.
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A new 1500-seat EJ Whitten stand and broadcast quality lights will be built at the home of the Western Bulldogs, with the Andrews Government kicking in $37 million for the redevelopment.
The $58 million major project, which will allow for AFLW matches to be shown on TV in high definition, could start by mid-2021 in a boost to the post-pandemic construction sector.
Included in the plans are new community facilities, including physical and mental health services through the leading Sons and Daughters of the West program.
The major state budget cash splash, which is part of a suite of infrastructure projects set to ignite the building industry and stimulate economic growth post-COVID, will be announced today by Sports Minister Martin Pakula.
The Bulldogs will also kick in a “significant” funding contribution, according to the government, with players set to benefit from refurbished training facilities, a new club administration centre and function space.
A new match-day pavilion with upgraded food and drink facilities complete the vision, which is currently before Maribyrnong Council for approvals.
Mr Pakula said the Whitten Oval upgrade cash was on top of $6 million already spent on planning.
“This project is a massive win for the people of the west and not just football fans, with the needs of the community central to the planning and delivery of the redevelopment,” he said.
“It’s fantastic footy fans will be able to watch the AFLW Bulldogs and Footscray VFL teams in much improved conditions.”
Club president Peter Gordon, who was joined at the ground yesterday by state treasurer and Bulldogs fan Tim Pallas as well as captains Marcus Bontempelli and Ellie Blackburn, said the club was grateful for the support of its Whitten Oval vision.
“Our ambition is to make the Whitten Oval precinct the heart of the community – an everyday precinct to spectate, celebrate and discover,” he said.
Footscray MP Katie Hall said the ground was “the heart and soul of Footscray” and the upgrades would be shared by people across the community.
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Originally published as A massive upgrade of the Bulldogs’ home ground set for state support worth $37m
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