Featured image credit: Marajozkee/CC BY-SA 4.0/Edited for size
Populous has secured a contract to become the lead architect on the redevelopment of one of the world’s most iconic cricket stadiums, Kolkata’s Eden Gardens.
The announcement today (Wednesday) comes with the venue’s operator, the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB), having run a tender process to secure a partner since September. First established in 1864, Eden Gardens’ current 68,000-seat capacity places it as the world’s third largest cricket venue, behind Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad and Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), both Populous projects.
Along with being one of India’s leading national team venues, it is also home to CAB cricket and Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Kolkata Knight Riders. The redevelopment project aims to create a truly 21st century venue at Eden Gardens, with safety, sustainability and experience at the core. The venue’s capacity will look to be increased, while keeping the same footprint, ensuring fans remain close to the action.
Along with Narendra Modi Stadium and the MCG, Populous’ cricket stadium portfolio includes Lord’s in London, England and The Gabba in Brisbane, Australia. Populous is currently engaged in two further cricket projects in India and has also joined the country’s quest for the 2036 Olympic and Paralympic Games by delivering the masterplan of the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave, and being part of the overall feasibility study for Ahmedabad – which is expected to be at the centre stage of India’s Olympic aspirations.
All of Populous’ work in the Asia Pacific region is directed from its APAC headquarters in Brisbane, with 14 offices reporting to this central hub, including in India.
Populous managing director for Asia Pacific, Paul Henry, said: “We are honoured to have an opportunity to work on the revered Eden Gardens, one of the oldest cricket stadiums in India and an icon of cricket history.
“This is also a win for Queensland professional services firms as Queensland continues to build its trade and investment relationship with India. We can be very proud of the Queensland design talent we export to India and indeed all over the world.
“This success is another example of the trade opportunities that Queensland firms can create in the run up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games and these opportunities cannot be underestimated.”
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