Sydney's two biggest stadiums will be torn down and rebuilt in a major Aus$2 billion (US$1.5 billion) redevelopment, the state government said Friday, in a controversial move that critics called a waste of money. The 83,500-capacity ANZ Stadium - completed in 1999 for Sydney's hosting of the 2000 Olympic Games - will be replaced by a 75,000-seat rectangular ground, New South Wales state Premier Gladys Berejiklian said.
Allianz Stadium, which can seat up to 45,500 and was opened in 1988, will be demolished with a similarly sized arena constructed in its place. "Fans will be closer to the action than ever before, with steep seating creating a colosseum-inspired wall of sound and colour, enhanced with the world's most advanced technology," Berejiklian said. "This investment means we can compete on the world stage for events such as the FIFA Women's World Cup, the Rugby World Cup."
Her government said the two venues currently attract a combined 3.5 million visitors per year and contribute more than Aus$1 billion to the state's annual economy.
The announcement was welcomed by Australia's leading sport governing bodies, including the National Rugby League and Rugby Australia. But critics, including the state's Labor opposition leader Luke Foley, said the money could be better spent on boosting schools and hospitals funding.
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