Ambitious plans to construct a $300 million sports stadium gets support from Darwin business houses and the general public

AFLNT officials confident a $300 million, 25,000-seat sports stadium with views of Frances Bay and Darwin Harbour will make Darwin a true capital city

AFLNT chairman Sean Bowden, right, with Larrakia Development Corporation CEO Nigel Browne and AFLNT CEO Stuart Totham at the proposed stadium site on McMinn St. Picture GLENN CAMPBELL

A 25,000-seat sports stadium on the edge of the Darwin CBD has moved a step closer with support for the project coming from business groups and the general public.

AFLNT chairman Sean Bowden is heading the push for the $300 million multipurpose stadium on the corner of McMinn Street and Garramilla Boulevard to be under construction by the middle of 2026. Bowden has already gained in -principle support from the Darwin major business group, Chamber of Commerce and Australian Hotels Association of the NT.

“And the general public has understood the importance of a stadium like this and what it can do for the future of Darwin,’’ Bowden said.

“It’s a stadium that will be for the community and at the same time, a facility that we’re engaging with architects, project managers and the NT Government to secure and develop to a major level.

Bowden said costings and where the money will come from would happen in the first half of 2021.

“Right now we think the project and all it embraces can help drive the NT through the economic issues created by the pandemic, so now is the time to move,’’ he said. “It will make Darwin a true capital city and a place that is truly liveable for the people and with the same opportunities as the other major cities. Our vision for the stadium also includes Southeast Asia and India for events like the Indian Premier League, their under-23 cricket league and soccer throughout Asia.’’

Bowden does not want to get left behind regional centres like Townsville, Cairns and even Rockhampton, who are also planning to build a major stadium.

“It’s why it’s important we start moving on this, with the stadium open towards Frances Bay and Darwin Harbour and potential for a five-star hotel within the complex as per what’s happening at the Adelaide Oval,’’ he said.

A bus terminal linked with the building is a necessity and we want it designed to draw after work patrons and to be linked with the Larrakia Cultural Centre and the Darwin Waterfront.’’

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