Rethink ends problem of grand final stadium

THE TSL has been saved from the horror prospect of an allnorthern grand final in front of a near empty Blundstone Arena — for this season at least.

This year’s grand final was originally locked into Hobart, no matter who was playing, with Launceston’s University of Tasmania Stadium ruled out because of resurfacing.

But the Launceston City Council had deferred the work until the same time next year so as not to risk affecting any Big Bash League cricket fixtures at the venue, Launceston council general manger Michael Stretton said.

“Once we did complete the detailed project planning for resurfacing, the risk of any potential time delays due to inclement weather or any other unforeseen situation arising, it was deemed to be too much of a risk to ignore, which is why we’ve taken the only prudent course of action by postponing the resurfacing until 2019,” Stretton said.

“The good news is, given the longer lead time we now have, it will allow us to schedule the resurfacing next year with minimal impact on those clubs and teams who use the stadium.

“Our expectation is work will start straight after the final Hawthorn match of the 2019 AFL season at the stadium.”

This means that if North Launceston or Launceston qualify first for this year’s grand final, the match will be held at UTas Stadium.

TSL general manager Carl Saunder said it was great news for the competition.

“We understand UTas Sta- dium are delaying the planned ground renovations for next year and it is fantastic news as it means the venue will be available for the entire TSL season including the finals series,” Saunder said.

“This news means it will be business as usual and all finals will be played across our two approved finals venues, Blundstone Arena and UTas Stadium.”