‘Game changer’: Industry leaders welcome proposed $300m Darwin City stadium

Territory industry heads have welcomed a proposal to build a $300m stadium in the Darwin CBD, saying it could be a ‘game changer’ for the area.

An artist’s impression showing one of two designs for the proposed AFL stadium in the Darwin CBD. Picture: Supplied

• First look: Darwin’s $300m stadium plans take shape

TERRITORY industry heads have welcomed the proposal to build a $300m stadium in the Darwin CBD, saying it would be a “game changer” for the area.

Hospitality NT chief executive Alex Bruce said the stadium would create a major boost for Darwin city bars and restaurants.

“This stadium would allow us to host major sporting events that attract thousands of interstate fans,” he said.

“It would boost the city’s bars, restaurants, cafes, hotels and retail.”

He also said there could be potential to revamp the nearby Harvey Street area into a hospitality precinct.

“Additional restaurants, bars and cafes could all be supported through a new Harvey Street sports entertainment precinct,” he said.

Mr Bruce said the project could “redefine” Darwin.

An artist’s impression showing one of two designs for the proposed AFL stadium in the Darwin CBD. Picture: Supplied

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“Everything from sellout Dreamtime AFL matches, English Premier League exhibition games through to world-class singers and acts – this project would redefine the Top End as more than just a bucket list destination,” he said.

“This project would be a game changer for Darwin.”

NT Chamber of Commerce chief operating officer Nicole Walsh said the project would have long-term economic and social benefits for the Territory.

“There would be positive economic impacts and the Chamber would like to see strategies going forward around environmental and social benefits to the community over the coming 20, 30 or 40 years,” she said.

“This is a great way of establishing ourselves into that sporting and concert arena and to showcase the Territory.”

An artist’s impression showing one of two designs for the proposed AFL stadium in the Darwin CBD. Picture:

However, City of Darwin Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis had reservations about the project, saying the money could be better spent elsewhere.

“My personal opinion is we’ve got a very good stadium in Marrara,” he said.

“Why not upgrade Marrara instead of building another stadium and making Marrara a ghost area?”

The plans for the 25,000-seat covered stadium are set to be released to the public this week by project co-ordinator and AFLNT chairman Sean Bowden.

If it goes ahead, the stadium could be up and running to coincide with Brisbane’s bid to host the 2032 Olympic Games.