- Last updated:
- 01 Apr 2021
The proposed expansion will boost the venue seating capacity to 11,618 with a total capacity of 16,618. The main features will include an expansion of the current western grandstand and development of a new eastern grandstand.
Community consultation
In January 2021, council submitted a development application to the Queensland Government via the Ministerial Infrastructure Designation (MID) process.
The MID process is commonly used for community infrastructure such as schools, hospitals and sporting clubs. This application process means council does not assess its own development application.
The Queensland Government community consultation period ran 16 February – 17 March 2021 and is now closed. Council is currently reviewing and responding to two submissions that were made. An assessment by the Queensland Government is expected within approximately six weeks.
Capacity
The proposed expansion will boost the venue seating capacity to 11,618 with a total capacity of 16,618 via:
- A new eastern grandstand with 8085 seats
- Expansion of the existing western grandstand to 3533 seats, from 1046
- Southern and northern mounds will remain to accommodate around 5000 spectators.
Design
The concept design reflects our region’s unique topographical landscape. Innovative features will reflect our subtropical climate and create a distinctly Queensland atmosphere.
The project will deliver key components such as:
- increased grandstand seating
- improved facilities for athletes and officials
- multi-purpose/community spaces
- additional change rooms
- coaches’ and media boxes, camera platforms and a production area
- improved first aid facilities
- enhanced hospitality and function offering
- improved amenities for spectators.
Fans will enjoy a better experience with:
- improved seating layout and sight lines
- supply of food and beverages
- more public amenities
- improved access and inclusivity
- better technology.
Economic impact
An independent economic impact assessment has been commissioned and initial results shared. This work was undertaken by .id The Population Experts and calculated using an input-output model which is derived from the local economy microsimulation model by National Economics (NIEIR). The key findings of this report were as follows:
- The combination of all direct, industrial and consumption effects would result in a total estimated increase of 308 jobs located on the Sunshine Coast during the construction phase.
- The combination of all direct, industrial and consumption effects would result in total estimated rise in output of $100.6m in the Sunshine Coast economy.
- Events attracted on a 12-month calendar following the completion of the construction is estimated to have an economic impact of $23.8m which is estimated to add 263 direct and indirect jobs into the Sunshine Coast.