Collingwood Announces Ambitious Expansion of Victoria Park Stadium
The Collingwood Football Club has officially announced a transformative expansion of its historic home, Victoria Park Stadium, set to increase its capacity from 10,000 to 25,000 spectators. This ambitious project, estimated to cost over $900 million, aims to modernize the stadium into a luxurious venue, enhancing the fan experience and providing the club with a dedicated home for various matches and events.
Victoria Park Stadium, a cornerstone of Collingwood’s identity for decades, is poised to enter a new chapter with this redevelopment. While the club shares the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), which has a capacity exceeding 100,000, the expansion of Victoria Park will offer a more intimate, community-focused atmosphere for fans.
Club President Jeff Browne emphasized the significance of this project for the future of Collingwood. “Victoria Park is at the heart of our club’s history,” Browne stated. “Expanding and upgrading this stadium will not only provide a better experience for our fans but also ensure we have a dedicated home that reflects our ambitions.”
The last major renovations to the MCG occurred in 1992 with the rebuilding of the Southern Stand, and the northern side’s redevelopment was completed in 2006 for the Commonwealth Games. These renovations, while beneficial for the MCG, often impacted the venue’s availability for Collingwood. The expansion of Victoria Park ensures the club has a reliable, state-of-the-art venue.
The revitalized Victoria Park will feature state-of-the-art facilities, including improved seating, enhanced accessibility, and modern amenities for fans. The project also focuses on creating a vibrant precinct around the stadium, with new retail spaces, community areas, and improved transport links. These enhancements are designed to create a year-round destination for fans and the local community.
Local community leaders have voiced their strong support for the project, highlighting the economic and social benefits it will bring to the area. “This redevelopment will create jobs, attract visitors, and boost local businesses,” said Mayor Helen Patterson. “It’s a fantastic investment in our community.” The project is expected to generate numerous employment opportunities during the construction phase and beyond, providing a significant boost to the local economy.
The Collingwood Football Club plans to commence construction in early 2026, with the goal of completing the project by the start of the 2028 AFL season. During the construction period, the club will continue to utilize the MCG for its major matches, ensuring minimal disruption to the playing schedule. The club is working closely with the AFL to coordinate match fixtures and ensure a smooth transition.
Fans have reacted with enthusiasm to the announcement, expressing excitement about the prospect of returning to a revitalized Victoria Park. The club is committed to engaging with supporters throughout the redevelopment process, ensuring their input is considered in the final design. Collingwood plans to hold a series of town hall meetings and online forums to gather feedback from fans and address any concerns.
The expansion of Victoria Park Stadium represents a significant investment in the future of the Collingwood Football Club and the local community. With state-of-the-art facilities, improved fan experience, and a vibrant surrounding precinct, Victoria Park is set to become a premier destination for sports and entertainment.
