Canberra Chief Minister backs airport's stadium proposal
Chief Minister Barr has backed Canberra Airport's plan for a 25,000 to 36,000-seat stadium at Regatta Place.
Andrew Barr once rejected a city stadium in favour of the Bruce precinct. Barr now praises the Regatta Place site as a winner.
The location offers a light rail link and a 15-minute walk to the city centre. Barr said the stadium should be a true national landmark with design quality fitting one of Canberra's most important civic sites.
A Public Private Partnership would be the best model, similar to the MCG or SCG. The proposal needs Commonwealth approval first, since it sits on Catholic church land at the southern gateway.
The business case must show it is feasible. Barr said his government would continue work on other projects like the Aquatic Centre while the stadium proponents develop their submission.
- 25,000 to 36,000 seats
- Stadium seating capacity
- 15 minutes
- Walk time to city centre
- Regatta Place
- Site location
- Te Kaha Stadium in Christchurch
- Design inspiration
Why it mattersThis is the first time Canberra's leader has backed a city stadium idea, potentially unlocking years of local debate about whether the national capital needs a new venue.
AustraliaCanberra residents will see renewed focus on whether the city should build a modern stadium, with potential costs around 500 million dollars and a long-term commitment to infrastructure.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 1 h ago
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