Stadium facelift

Rockliff reveals plan

PREMIER Jeremy Rockliff has revealed plans for a major upgrade to UTAS Stadium in Launceston.

The $65m first stage of a $200m plan will include an enhanced Eastern Stand, improved playing facilities and a new entertainment precinct.

The move is designed to increase seating and give fans better facilities and a worldclass football experience.

“The upgrade plans we’re releasing today will provide an increase of more than 1000 seats, while significantly improving facilities for players, coaches and fans alike,” Mr Rockliff said on Tuesday.

“A new entertainment precinct as well as improved food and beverage facilities will ensure the fans that flock to UTAS Stadium will have a memorable experience.

“An upgraded UTAS Stadium will not only see more elite sports being played in the north, including supporting a future Tasmanian AFL team, it will also generate immense economic benefits.”

The move comes after the state government released a business case to build a $710m multipurpose stadium in Hobart to host a Tasmanian AFL side if a franchise is approved.

The Minister for State Development, Construction and Housing, Guy Barnett, said the stadium upgrade would ensure it was ready to also host elite sporting teams.

“Stage 1 works will include refurbishment of home-andaway change rooms, a refurbished umpires’ room and new interchange benches,” he said.

“Planning is well under way and we expect construction to start later in the year once planning and development approvals are received.

“This $65m upgrade is another example of the Rockliff Liberal government delivering on a pipeline of major infrastructure that creates jobs, grows the economy.”

Stage 1 of the upgrade is expected to be completed in 2025.

Launceston Mayor Danny Gibson welcomed the upgrade, saying: “The opportunity to increase the number of patrons we can have at UTAS Stadium will be a game-changer.”