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An historic day for Carlton as the demolition of the Heatley and Harris Stands begins
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It was an historic day at the Carlton Football Club with the serious demolition of the Heatley and Harris Stands at Princes Park commencing. In front of members of the Harris and Heatley families, Carlton’s interim President Stephen Kernahan was joined by the Victorian Minister for Sport and Recreation, James Merlino for this historic occasion.
It was a case of out with the old and in with the new as the demolition of the stands commenced to make way for a multimillion redevelopment at the home of the Carlton Football Club.
Kernahan said it was an exciting project for the Carlton Football Club and acknowledged the support provided by the State Government, City of Melbourne and the AFL in it becoming a reality.
“There is sure to be a touch of sadness for some Carlton people with the removal of these stands that have been a part of the Club's history, however this is about the future,” Mr Kernahan said.
“The elite training facilities will be of enormous benefit to our exciting young playing list and coaching staff. This new facility will play a vital role in the development of our players and will support the programs we have in place to achieve our objective of long term sustained success for the Carlton Football Club."
Mr Merlino gave the signal for the earth-moving equipment to start demolition.
“The Victorian Government understands that supporting grassroots and elite sport is one of the keys to building stronger and more liveable communities across the state,” Mr Merlino said.
“That’s why we are investing $4.3 million for a new building featuring a new gym, aquatic rehab facilities and offices for players and administrators.
“There’ll also be fitness studios and rehabilitation suites, a function and meeting rooms, café and a 70-seat theatrette and aquatic rehabilitation facilities for local people to use and enjoy.
“The funding is part of a Victorian Government initiative to improve suburban football grounds into multi-purpose sport and recreation venues suitable for a range of community activities,” he said.
The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2009. Other funding contributions include $2 million from the City of Melbourne, $3.45 million from the AFL and further funds from the Carlton Football Club.
