Work is well underway on the WACA Ground Improvement Project, with the iconic Inverarity Stand demolished to make way for the future aquatic centre.
The demolition took eight weeks to plan and one week to complete.
The stand will be relocated to a new pavilion, as part of the upgrades, preserving an important part of Western Australian cricketing history.
Constructed in 1970 for the very first men’s test match played in Perth, it was originally called the Test Stand before being renamed in 1985 after former WA cricket captain John Inverarity.
Early works commenced in August this year with the oval lengthening. Major works are expected to commence in February 2022 with a gradual clearing of the north end of the WACA Ground and the demolition of the neighbouring Prindiville Stand.
The WACA Ground Improvement Project (WGIP) is anticipated to create 120 jobs in the construction phase and 250 ongoing jobs when operational.
The WGIP is jointly funded by the Australian Government, Western Australian Government, City of Perth, Western Australian Cricket Association and Cricket Australia.
The project is a key part of the $1.5 billion Perth City Deal, a joint agreement between the three levels of government.
As stated by Federal Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts, the Hon Paul Fletcher MP:
“The WACA is an iconic venue and tourism drawcard, which is why the Morrison Government has committed $30 million to its revitalisation through the Perth City Deal – a collaboration between all three levels of government to enhance the liveability and vibrancy of the city.
“Today marks a significant milestone for this important project, which will help support local jobs, sport, and culture in Perth.”
As stated by Western Australian Minister for Transport, Hon Rita Saffioti MLA:
“I’m sure lots of West Aussies have fond memories of visiting the WACA Ground and seeing the Inverarity Stand in full swing.
“While we need to move this piece of history, it will be preserved in a nearby pavilion and we will be delivering a top quality aquatic centre that the whole community can enjoy.
“The McGowan Government is proud to be the majority funder of the Perth City Deal with more than $470 million allocated to projects around the CBD.”
As stated by Western Australian Minister for Sport and Recreation, Hon Tony Buti MLA:
“This eastern part of our city has always been a place of immense opportunity – this work will allow the WACA to join other attractions like our riverside paths, parks and stadium that will make this area a remarkable sport and recreation precinct.
“Not only will the WACA continue to be a destination for cricket and other sports, but as a facility for the wider community that can be enjoyed year round.”
As stated by Perth Lord Mayor, Basil Zempilas:
“The City of Perth’s $25 million dollar capital contribution towards the WACA aquatic facility demonstrates our commitment to building a swimming pool in East Perth and to the Perth City deal.
“This is a significant development for East Perth residents and for visitors to the City of Perth. It also means the City of Perth will be contributing in excess of $40 million to the transformational Perth City Deal – a three-way partnership the City is very proud to be part of.”
As stated by Federal Member for Stirling, Vince Connelly MP:
“It’s exciting to see the WACA get a new lease of life and transform into a multipurpose sporting hub for the whole community.
“As part of the Morrison Government, I’m heartened to support these revitalisation works which will generate local jobs and reinvigorate the Perth City centre.”
As stated by WA Cricket CEO, Christina Matthews:
“It’s fantastic that the aquatic facility will go ahead in the Ground Improvements. It will play a huge part in creating a community and sporting hub here at the WACA Ground.
“We want to thank the State and Federal governments and the City of Perth for their contribution and hard work getting this finalised.
“It’s an exciting future for the WACA Ground and this aquatic facility will help drive year round use and create an even more iconic ground.”
