So this is the more interesting half of the story we reported earlier.
Manuka Oval is getting an upgrade after 3000 cubic metres of its gets moved to the National Arboretum.
It seems the ACT Government would like to a few more matches of cricket played here.
The replacement of the playing surface is scheduled for completion before the Prime Minister’s XI cricket match to be played on 14 January 2014.
The upgrade of the oval includes:
— Removal of the existing playing surface;
— Installation of a new playing surface, 1.2metres lower than the existing surface, including a central block for seven cricket wickets;
— Removal and replacement of the existing fence;
— The installation of 1400 extra seats, in two new rows of seats in front of the existing front row of seats in the inner bowl, filling the space created by lowering the surface and marginally reducing the size of the playing area;
— Replacing most of the existing seats; and
— Construction of three dugouts for players and officials.Once completed, the redevelopment will increase the ground’s capacity from its current 13,500 to more than 15,500, and boost the chances of Manuka hosting Cricket World Cup matches in 2015.
Manuka Oval is an iconic part of Canberra’s history with construction having commenced in 1924. These works mark an exciting new stage in the ground’s development, which will help bring it up to the standards expected by both players and spectators.