$7m boost for stadium
The State Government has reversed tack on the redevelopment of rectangular nib stadium in East Perth, deciding it will now include corporate facilities in the planned new eastern grandstand.
State Cabinet on Monday approved an increase in the grandstand project's budget to $95.1 million from $88.5 million so extra facilities can be included when it goes to tender later this year.
The stand will include 56 open corporate boxes, seating 420, and a 250-people barbecue terrace.
The facilities will allow the stadium's users, which include the Western Force rugby team and Perth Glory, to generate extra income.
Sport and Recreation Minister Terry Waldron said it had become clear after consultations with the venues tenants that extra corporate facilities were needed to help ensure the viability of the rectangular codes.
Perth Glory also calls nib Stadium home and the venue is expected to underpin a Perth bid to join the National Rugby League for the 2013 or 2014 season.
The initial proposed scope of works, while benefitting spectators and members attending nib, provided minimal revenue-generating opportunities for the sports, Mr Waldron said.
Western Force chief Vern Reid said rugby was delighted with the changes, which would provide the club with extra corporate sales opportunities the club had foregone after deciding to move from Subiaco Oval, now Patersons Stadium, to nib Stadium two seasons ago.
He said nearly one quarter of the Forces revenue came from corporate hospitality sales.
It covers off everything that we were seeking we couldnt be happier, Mr Reid said.
It is understood protracted negotiations between the Government and the Town of Vincent over a 50-year lease of the venue have still not been finally resolved, despite an announcement of a $6 million in-principle deal 11 months ago.
