Minister for Police, Corrective Services and Sport
The Honourable Judy Spence
Friday, October 26, 2007
SKILLED PARK TO ACCOMMODATE AN EXTRA 2,000 FANS: SPENCE
Sport Minister Judy Spence today announced the capacity of the new $160 Million Skilled Park is being increased to accommodate 2,000 more fans than previously planned.
The stadium was originally designed to accommodate 25,000 fans, Ms Spence said.
During construction it has become apparent there is sufficient space to increase capacity, with no impact on the project budget or the comfort of patrons.
As a result, the managing contractors have advised the venues capacity will now be around 27,000 which is a great outcome for both the fans and the teams set to play at Skilled Park.
Ms Spence said the good news comes as construction at the stadium is reaching some major milestones.
With the stadium set for completion in time for the commencement of the 2008 NRL season, things are really starting to take shape, Ms Spence said.
80% of the seats have now been installed, and the roofing fabric is being progressively fitted in place.
Four huge water tanks with a capacity totalling nearly One Million Litres have now been installed, to collect rainwater via the roof of the Stadium, to irrigate the field, and preparations are underway for the upcoming laying of the turf.
The development of the greater Skilled Park site is also receiving a huge boost, with Ms Spence today announcing a contribution of $570,000 towards the construction of a pedestrian link boardwalk along the southern edge of Mudgeeraba Creek.
This government is contributing more than half the funding for the $1 Million boardwalk project, partnering with Gold Coast City council and the Robina Land Corporation, Ms Spence said.
Gold Coast Mayor, Ron Clarke, said the pedestrian link is being developed as part of the Councils broader West Park project.
This pedestrian link is great news for the Gold Coast and will provide easy access for fans, between the stadium and parkland on the western side of the rail line, Mr Clarke said.
It will also provide a great walkway for residents and visitors in the area accessing the open spaces being developed as part of the Green Heart project.
Ms Spence said the boardwalk will be a valuable link for the Gold Coast Titans who have recently announced a multi million dollar administration, sports coaching and player development facility on land south of the Skilled Park.
The link will also improve access to Skilled Park for patrons attending events and functions at the venue, Ms Spence said.
The project is expected to be constructed in sync with Skilled Park, with completion expected early next year.
This government is committed to delivering a world-class facility and sporting precinct at Skilled Park and these major initiatives announced today further ensure this commitment will be met.
