Architects behind Australia's top stadiums win Robina design stakes
Queensland Premier Peter Beattie today announced that the architects who designed the highly praised Suncorp Stadium, Telstra Stadium and Telstra Dome have also been appointed to create the $100 million 25,000-seat Gold Coast Stadium at Robina.
With a brief to reflect the Gold Coast's identity, HOK Sport +Venue + Event Pty Ltd has come up with the winning proposal to blend the stadium in with the surrounding Robina town centre.
"It is an exciting concept and I am sure the new stadium will become an iconic landmark in Queensland," said Mr Beattie last night.
"It is a high-quality design which makes good use of the land and site specifications. The architect has paid particular attention to integrating the stadium into the Robina urban centre."
Mr Beattie said the design brief to companies stressed the need for the stadium to reflect the identity of the Coast.
"The design and location of this stadium will enhance the appeal of Robina as the sporting and entertainment precinct on the Gold Coast," he said.
"It will be a fully functional, quality rugby league, rugby union and soccer venue."
Mr Beattie said HOK Sport had a strong background in designing world-class stadiums.
"Their expertise and experience has been demonstrated with projects such as Telstra Stadium, Telstra Dome and international stadiums," he said.
"Of course, they also designed what I believe is the best stadium in the world Suncorp Stadium."
HOK Sport would now prepare detailed designs that are based on their successful proposal.
The final cost of the stadium would be determined after the selection process for a building consultant was completed by the end of October to ensure a competitive costing of the stadium was obtained.
Construction of the stadium was expected to start in mid-2006, with commissioning to follow early in 2008 in time for the kick-off of the 2008 NRL season.
The Gold Coast Titans rugby league team will play their first season in 2007 at the old Carrara stadium, which will be upgraded for the comfort of spectators.
The Gold Coast Stadium will be owned and operated by the Government, through the Major Sports Facilities Authority.
The authority has engaged the Department of Public Works to be the principal and construction authority for the new stadium.
The MSFA currently operates Suncorp Stadium, the Gabba, the Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre, the Brisbane Entertainment Centre, the Sleeman Centre and Dairy Farmers Stadium in Townsville.
