The final stage of the Simonds Stadium redevelopment - the replacement of the Ford Stand and Gary Ablett Terrace - looks set to get a big boost in the upcoming Victorian State Budget.
The Andrews Government, which wants Simonds Stadium to be the best stadium in regional Australia, is expected to allocate $3.9 million to kick-start planning and design work.
Victorian Sports Minister and Lara MP John Eren spoke to the Geelong Advertiser about the need for Stage Five to be completed.
"Geelong experienced one of its best summers thanks to a bonanza of major events," Eren said.
"This next stage will only make things better by bringing even more superstars and more business to our region."
Cats chief executive Brian Cook said he was delighted to be briefed on the State Government’s commitment.
“Our club is very happy with the State Government decision to fund the design work leading up to the possible construction of the final stage of redevelopment at Simonds Stadium,” Cook said.
“We all look forward to the completion of the stadium, which started with stage one around 15 years ago.”
Stage Five is expected to cost around $90 million, with funding to be sought from the Federal Government.
Stage Four - the new Charles Brownlow Stand - will open when the Cats host the Western Bulldogs at Simonds Stadium on May 19.