Feature

Build second Melbourne stadium next to MCG, says cricket chief

The outgoing head of the organisation that runs the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) believes its surrounds should be considered as a location for the Australian city’s much-discussed second main AFL arena.

Stephen Gough, the chief executive of Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC), has urged governments and sporting codes to ensure the 100,000-capacity MCG and its grounds remain a priority for rejuvenation.

AFL club Collingwood’s president Eddie McGuire has proposed a second stadium for the Melbourne and Olympic Park zone, while the AFL itself has recently lobbied the regional Victoria government to assist in upgrading Docklands (Etihad) Stadium – home to five Aussie Rules teams – when the League eventually takes ownership of that venue.

However, Gough believes that the construction of so-called 'sister stadium' to the MCG could work in a logistical sense.

"There's no doubt, there's a whole lot that goes with it, I mean transport and the solution of transport is a really critical element to it," Gough told AFL.com.au.

"There's a hell of a lot that could happen here in this precinct, it is a world class precinct and there is a lot to be done in the next few years.

"We do need two stadiums. The thing about this neck of the woods … this is a world class precinct.

"I think the next steps, we need to cover the rail lines, we need to upgrade Richmond (train) station because this precinct has to stay world class.

"We're the sporting capital of the world, you've got to keep investing to make sure that your infrastructure and your transport and all those solutions are world class.”

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