Sydney’s ANZ Stadium will be given an operable roof and returned to a rectangular shape from October 2016 if the $350 million proposal by BVN architects for its upgrade is approved by the NSW government.

BVN have been selected alongside engineering company Laing O’Rourke from a shortlist of other developers to carry out the development of the former Sydney Olympics site.

A key highlight of the BVN design is a transparent retractable roof that will open or close in 20 minutes to ensure playing conditions and spectator comfort all-year round.

Another feature— one that will especially spark the interest of the supporters of the rectangular field codes—is the inclusion of double tiered pivoting grandstands at both ends of the stadium which will bring fans as close as five metres to the field and will return the oval back to its original rectangular shape. Click to enlarge images:

“It is all about improving the spectator experience,” said BVN principal Ninotschka Titchkosky, who also highlighted that all the facilities between the concourse and the pitch will be redistributed to the outside edge, giving spectators on the concourse a view through to the game.

The Master Plan includes a perimeter entertainment zone that will wrap around the stadium and include new bars, cafes and restaurants. Also wrapping the stadium will be an illuminated halo that can be customised for different codes and competing teams.

A vertical village of integrated, multi-level Members’ facilities will be created in the western grandstand, including a new 5-star boutique restaurant and increased seated dining capacity.

BVN were responsible for the original ‘Stadium Australia’ design back in 1999 and Titchkosky said the upgrade will stem from over 15 years of new innovations and an increased understanding about good stadium design.

“There is far more technology available today and a greater understanding of the social aspects of sporting venues some fifteen years later,” she said.

“This is the beginning of a broader vision that has the potential to transform Homebush into Australia’s most exciting event destination.”

The proposal was designed in line with the NSW Government’s Stadia Strategy and the Sydney Olympic Park Master Plan Vision released by the NSW Government in July 2013.

The Stadium redevelopment will coincide with the construction of the WestConnex motorway and the state government is also considering a proposal for a Light Rail corridor between Parramatta and Sydney Olympic Park.

The project will commence only when an agreement between Government and private enterprise on a funding model has been reached but a statement from the ANZ Stadium organisation says that should be following the 2016 NRL grand final.

New and refurbished corporate suites are planned, including opening glass-fronted suites to the arena atmosphere. Field-level hospitality suites will offer a unique fan experience, with sporting clubs able to offer exclusive access to a Field Club.

A fitness centre and indoor pool linked to the Stadium is proposed for the precinct, with new entertainment and family zones both inside and out.

The Precinct will feature four new hubs of activity – Entertainment, Hospitality, Cultural and Commercial zones – directly outside the Stadium, including an Olympic & Sports Museum. The four zones are linked by rising grass-covered walkways with elevated pedestrian access to the Stadium.

The illuminating LED halo will be customised for different events.

Images: BVN architects.

Nathan Johnson

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