A proposed all-event stadium in central Canberra is moving into a detailed assessment phase, with globally renowned stadium design specialist Populous engaged to investigate the feasibility of a world-class venue at Regatta Place.

Appointed by Canberra Airport, Populous will examine the site’s suitability and explore design options for a stadium intended to accommodate a range of sporting and entertainment events, alongside operational planning and construction cost estimation.

Populous has an extensive international portfolio spanning stadiums, arenas and major event venues, with projects including Forsyth Barr Stadium, CommBank Stadium and Suncorp Stadium, as well as the recently designed One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha in Christchurch.

The engagement follows the launch of the Our City. Our Stadium. proposal and the release of independent analysis into the potential economic and social impact benefits of locating a stadium in Canberra’s city centre.

"We said from day one that this proposal would be evidence-led and tested rigorously. The appointment of Populous is an important step in that process," says Canberra Airport Managing Director Stephen Byron.

"Populous has helped deliver some of the world's most successful stadiums and entertainment venues. Their role is to test the opportunity, explore options for the site and determine what is possible. This isn't about arriving with a predetermined answer. It's about engaging global experts to assess how a stadium worthy of the Nation's Capital could work in Canberra."

Populous’ scope encompasses a stadium site location study, concept design development and site suitability testing. The practice will also examine sustainability considerations and coordinate independent construction cost estimates, drawing on engineering, traffic and pitch delivery advice.

“This is an exciting opportunity to bring our global experience of designing One New Zealand Stadium to Canberra and explore how a new stadium could respond to the city, its climate and the needs of its community,” says Populous Senior Principal Al Baxter.

“I have a personal connection to Canberra, having been born there, and we look forward to working with Canberra Airport to test the concept to help shape a distinctive, flexible and sustainable venue for the Nation’s Capital.”

Populous_One New Zealand Stadium.jpg — *One New Zealand Stadium (Image supplied)*

Designed by Populous, One New Zealand Stadium is a fully covered, multipurpose venue in Christchurch’s city centre, developed to host sports, concerts and community events, with the broader ambition of supporting activity in the surrounding area.

Christchurch provides an important reference point for Canberra, observes Byron.

"Christchurch is one of the most relevant examples anywhere in our region,” he says.

"Like Canberra, it's a growing city that recognised the importance of investing in infrastructure that supports tourism, attracts major events and creates a focal point for community life.

"Christchurch will provide an important benchmark and starting point for the design, but the final concept will be tailored to Canberra, its needs and its climate," Byron concludes.

Main image: Canberra Airport Managing Director Stephen Byron (L) and Populous Senior Principal Al Baxter (Supplied)

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