Perth City Deal’s WACA upgrade underway
Work has begun on the long-awaited upgrades to the iconic Western Australian Cricket Association (WACA) Ground.
Premier Mark McGowan, WA Minister for Planning Rita Saffioti, WA Minister for Sport and Recreation Tony Buti, Federal Assistant Minister for Defence and WA MP Andrew Hastie and the WACA Chair Terry (Tuck) Waldron marked the start of construction on the WACA upgrade project.
The WACA Ground Improvement Project is part of the $1.5 billion Perth City Deal, to help ensure the long-term prosperity and liveability of Perth and drive the city's economic, social and environmental sustainability.
Local company Brajkovich Construction has been awarded the contract for early works, which will start with lengthening the WACA Ground oval to enable WAFL and other sports to return in mid-2022.
The works include the demolition of the Inverarity Stand, with the 50-year-old structure no longer fit for purpose and in need of rejuvenation.
When demolition of the neighbouring Prindiville Stand is completed in 2022, construction will begin on creating a sustainable community and sporting hub, with cricket at its heart.
Brajkovich Construction has previous experience working with the WACA, having been commissioned to demolish the Farley Stand in 2002.
The accessible and inclusive design celebrates Western Australia's local indigenous culture and reflects the proud sporting history of the WACA Ground.
The project team is also working hard to ensure works do not interrupt this season's international and domestic cricket fixtures.
The Ground Improvement Project is anticipated to take around 18 months.