Upgrades to continue at Perth’s WACA following demolition of Inverarity Stand

The redevelopment of Perth’s WACA is set to continue next month following the pre-Christmas demolition of the venue’s Inverarity Stand.

Constructed in 1970 for the very first men's Test match played in Perth, it was originally called the Test Stand before being renamed in 1985 after former Western Australian cricket captain John Inverarity.

Its demolition - which took eight weeks to plan and one week to complete - has made way for the future aquatic centre.

The stand will be relocated to a new pavilion, as part of the upgrades, preserving an important part of the venue’s cricketing history.

Work on the WACA Ground Improvement Project (WGIP) commenced in August last year with the oval lengthening and are expected to recommence in February with a gradual clearing of the north end of the venue and the demolition of the neighbouring Prindiville Stand.

The WGIP is jointly funded by the Australian Government, Western Australian Government, City of Perth, Western Australian Cricket Association and Cricket Australia.

The project is a key part of the $1.5 billion Perth City Deal, a joint agreement between the three levels of government.

Commenting on the progress of the project, Western Australian Minister for Sport and Recreation, Tony Buti stated “this eastern part of our city has always been a place of immense opportunity - this work will allow the WACA to join other attractions like our riverside paths, parks and stadium that will make this area a remarkable sport and recreation precinct.

"Not only will the WACA continue to be a destination for cricket and other sports, but as a facility for the wider community that can be enjoyed year round."

Perth Lord Mayor, Basil Zempilas, who has previously opposed the new aquatic centre, added “(our) capital contribution towards the WACA aquatic facility demonstrates our commitment to building a swimming pool in East Perth and to the Perth City deal.

"This is a significant development for East Perth residents and for visitors to the City of Perth.”

Western Australian Cricket Chief Executive, Christina Matthews concluded “it's fantastic that the aquatic facility will go ahead in the Ground Improvements. It will play a huge part in creating a community and sporting hub here at the WACA Ground.

"It's an exciting future for the WACA Ground and this aquatic facility will help drive year round use and create an even more iconic ground."

Images: Perth's WACA (top, credit: Adwo/Shutterstock) and the concept for the venue's aquatic facility (below).