Western Melbourne Group (WMG) has announced major project partners for Australia’s first sports and recreation-driven city – the $2billion development that will form the home of A-Leagues outfit Western United.
The development in the mixed-use suburb within the Wyndham City Council will incorporate a 15,000-capacity purpose built multi-sports stadium, three FIFA Pro outdoor playing surfaces and a 5,000-capacity second stadium for Western United’s Liberty A-League and Isuzu UTE A-League teams.
It will be Australia’s first privately-owned sports stadium.
With the project partners including Western United, development partner YourLand Developments and technology partner Johnson Controls – the club will begin playing home matches at their training ground in 2024.
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The development will incorporate four distinct precincts including: High Performance Sports Precinct, Stadium Precinct, Residential Precinct; Commercial and Mixed-Use Precinct – scheduled for phased completion over the coming 10 years.
“We’re absolutely delighted to work alongside some of the leading Australian and international property partners for this ground-breaking project, which will deliver both economic and social benefits to Melbourne’s West and, more broadly, the state of Victoria,” said WMG and Western United Executive Chairman Jason Sourasis.
“YourLand Developments’ experience in creating sustainable communities, where people aspire to live and work, aligns perfectly to the values of our region and was therefore a natural partner. YourLand has a proud legacy in Melbourne’s west, delivering over 2,500 lots as well as town centres, parks, open spaces and wetlands, in addition to commercial assets.
“Johnson Controls is one of the world’s best technology partners with demonstrable expertise in smart, healthy and sustainable development, including international sports and entertainment projects.”
Sourasis added: “This is truly the most exciting project in Melbourne’s sporting landscape and will create only the second A-League broadcast compliant, rectangular stadium in the State.
“As one of the newest football teams in the Australian domestic league, creating a welcoming and safe space for our fans is our top priority and this project will set our club up for the long-term.”
Ali Badreddine, vice president, Project Delivery and Sustainable Infrastructure, Asia Pacific, Johnson Controls said: “At Johnson Controls, we have a legacy of nearly 140 years of innovation, technology, and energy efficiency.
“We are proud to be a technology leader with deep experience in the sports and entertainment sector, providing enhanced safety, improved sustainability, and more connected experiences for fans and athletes.”
“We look forward to working with Western Melbourne Group and other valued partners to deliver sustainable development through our integrated solutions.”
Dean Gold, Chief Operating Officer, YourLand Developments said: “YourLand Developments has a proud history of successful development in the western suburbs of Melbourne, delivering places and communities with real substance and integrity that are designed to leave a positive and enduring legacy. YourLand’s team of highly skilled professionals have the experience and passion to take this project from vision to reality.”
Robert Kissane, Chief Financial Officer, YourLand Developments said: “YourLand Developments is thrilled to join capable partners with aligned values and objectives, Western Melbourne Group, Johnson Controls and Western United FC, to deliver this transformative project for Melbourne’s West.”