Hobart's Waterfront Stadium Design Under Review Amid Cricket Concerns
Tasmania’s ambitious plan to join the Australian Football League (AFL) as a 19th license in 2028, contingent upon the construction of a waterfront stadium, is facing a design hurdle. Concerns have been raised by Cricket Australia (CA) and Cricket Tasmania regarding the proposed roof design for the 23,000-seat Macquarie Point venue in Hobart. The design, intended to facilitate indoor Test cricket, is now being scrutinized for its potential impact on cricket matches.
The Core Issue: Shadows and Cricket Playability
The primary concern stems from the potential for shadows cast by the stadium's roof to negatively impact the cricket pitch throughout the day. In a letter obtained by the ABC, CA and Cricket Tasmania expressed doubts about the stadium's suitability for hosting Test matches, as well as potential challenges in accommodating one-day and T20 fixtures. The current design incorporates a transparent, fixed, dome-shaped roof supported by steel and timber, a feature now under review.
Potential Design Modifications
To address these concerns, CA and Cricket Tasmania have formally requested a discussion with the Tasmanian government to explore alternative design options. These options include:
- Eliminating the roof entirely: This would remove the shadow issue but would also negate a key contractual obligation.
- Implementing an operable roof: This would allow for the roof to be opened or closed as needed, mitigating shadow concerns while still fulfilling the contractual requirement for a roofed stadium.
Government and Project Stakeholder Responses
Liberal Premier Jeremy Rockliff, who secured the deal with the AFL, acknowledged the challenges and stated that all parties are working to find solutions. While reaffirming the government's commitment to a roofed stadium, he indicated openness to design modifications, including a partial roof. Anne Beach, CEO of the Macquarie Point Development Corporation, highlighted the contrast issues arising from the transparent roof and suggested potential adjustments to building materials and beam reduction to minimize shadows.
Financial and Regulatory Landscape
- Total Project Cost: AU$775 million
- Federal Government Contribution: AU$240 million
- AFL Contribution: AU$15 million
- Build Goal: 2029
The project is currently undergoing assessment by an independent planning body, which will deliver a draft report by the end of March and a final report in September. Subsequent approval requires a vote in state parliament.
Opposition Concerns
Tasmania’s Labor opposition supports the stadium project but has voiced concerns regarding its delivery, particularly noting that “nowhere in the world has cricket been played under a cross laminated timber roof.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the main concern regarding the stadium design? The primary concern is the potential for shadows cast by the roof to negatively impact cricket play.
- What are the possible design modifications being considered? Options include eliminating the roof entirely or implementing an operable roof.
- What is the total cost of the stadium project? The total cost is estimated at AU$775 million.
- When is the stadium expected to be completed? The current build goal is 2029.
- What is the status of the project's approval process? The project is currently under assessment by an independent planning body, with reports due in March and September.