Construction has begun on the $225 million upgrade to Docklands Stadium in Melbourne designed by Grimshaw and Smartform.
The project is set to improve connectivity between Docklands and the CBD, as well as enhance accessibility for visitors.
A primary feature of the redevelopment will be a new plaza, dubbed Town Square, on the southern side of the stadium at gates one to three, which will create a year-round, all-weather public space for sports fans to gather, as well as accommodate community events and markets.
The proposed Town Square in the redeveloped Docklands Stadium designed by Grimshaw and Smartform.
On the eastern side of the stadium, at gate five which faces the city, the existing stadium walls will be partially removed to create a new entry, dubbed City Edge, with an enhanced concourse space that will integrate ticketing, merchandising and food and beverage outlets.
The opening up of the eastern edge will create a better connection between the stadium and city.
Upgrade to the southern entrance of Docklands Stadium designed by Grimshaw and Smartform.
Other stadium upgrades include the refurbishment of existing function rooms to make them more versatile for events, change room upgrades with increased disability access, the refurbishment of facilities fro professional women’s sport, a multi-faith room and a sensory room which will provide a quiet space for children and adults with autism, dementia, PTSD or other similar conditions.
“These upgrades will provide a vibrant hub for the Docklands community and will attract more visitors to Melbourne’s waterfront,” said minister for tourism, sports and major events Martin Pakula.
Docklands Stadium opened in 2000 and was originally designed by Populous in association with Bligh Lobb Sports Architecture and Daryl Jackson. The upgrade is due to be complete in 2023.
Source: Architecture - architectureau
