An elite-level rectangular stadium is closer to the try line following Ipswich City Council’s decision to narrow the field down to two concepts for further study and final business case development.
Mayor Teresa Harding said the Growth, Infrastructure and Waste Committee heard expert reports that indicated that a stadium would bring important economic and social benefits to the city, and bolster the current Brisbane Jets NRL bid.
“As the fastest growing city in Queensland, Ipswich residents need and deserve a stadium capable of hosting NRL, A-League, and other events such as motocross,” Mayor Harding said.
“We know we have the population to support an NRL and an A-League team now, and with another 330,000 residents calling Ipswich home by 2041, it makes sense to bring a team to the city now.
“Our community is also the historic and spiritual home of rugby league, and one of the nation’s leading producers of elite NRL talent.
“It makes sense to invest in the social infrastructure that will support our growing population and provide a pathway for our region’s local playing talent.”
Mayor Harding said the committee decided to proceed with business case development on two stadium options, one at 12,000 patron capacity, and a second at 20,500+ capacity.
“We know a stadium at roughly 12,000 patron capacity would provide significant benefits to the city, and enable NRL, A-League, and other major events to be staged right in the heart of the city,” she said.
“A stadium of this size would also enable elite-level junior competitions, such as the Langer Cup, and regionally significant competitions like the Intrust Super Cup to be played at higher-grade facilities.
“These events, while not as high-profile as NRL or A-League, are important economic drivers for the city, and provide our local competitions with accessibility to quality playing surfaces.
“A stadium in the order of 20,500 capacity is similar to Queensland Country Bank Stadium in Townsville, which recently hosted State of Origin One – imagine hosting a future Origin match on the banks of the Bremer in the heart of league territory.”
Ipswich City Council is continuing to lobby both the State and Federal Governments for $2.5 million in support to finalise the business case for a future North Ipswich Reserve stadium.
The Brisbane Jets NRL bid was submitted for further evaluation last week.
