This is the new-look design that will lead the transformation of Wollongong's eastern precinct into a much-heralded tourism hub.
The $29 million western grandstand redevelopment at WIN Stadium has been unveiled, bringing with it the promise of some much-needed activity on the city's skyline.
The redeveloped grandstand will secure the stadium's viability as a national sporting facility, according to Illawarra Venues Authority chairman Chris Christodoulou.
"We will be able to attract other sporting codes that otherwise wouldn't come down here, including rugby union, City vs Country football matches or even as a training venue for World Cup soccer," he said.
Click here to post your favourite memories of WIN StadiumThe 6000-seat grandstand would boost WIN Stadium's capacity to 23,000, in addition to ticketing, catering, media and restroom upgrades.
The stand is expected to increase the stadium's total economic output by $8.5 million each year, while providing 640 jobs during construction and 81 on completion.
The designs, drawn up by Sydney-based firm Allen Jack + Cottier, feature a revamped Harbour St entrance, retail space and two function rooms. Among the contentious issues of the design is a narrow one-way thoroughfare alongside the stadium.
"One of the things we have proposed is Harbour St being a one-way street between Burelli and Stewart streets to accommodate the commercial development," Mr Christodoulou said.
At 31.3m high, the stand narrowly squeezes within the 32m local environmental plan restriction, which is not a significant factor, according to Mr Christodoulou.
"It's about the same height as the northern grandstand ... It won't be any different for buildings within that vicinity," he said.
Unlike the Sid Hayes stand, the new canopy roof design would ensure all patrons are undercover.
Demolition works on the old grandstand will begin on June 7, before construction starts in September.
The project is due to be finished by the end of 2011, while St George Illawarra Dragons games will return as early as June next year.
The development application will go on public exhibition at Wollongong City Council in the coming weeks.
Email a friend