Why does the club need a new facility?
Over the past three years, the club has been conducting a feasibility study of Waverley Park and results show that our current facility has a number of limitations. We will find it difficult to expand, grow and develop at Waverley Park.
One of the objectives within our strategic plan is to provide world-class training and administration facilities to attract the best players, coaches and staff and we have fallen down the AFL ladder compared with opposition clubs in this regard.
Additionally, we desire a facility that will allow our members and supporters to feel part of the club and to create a destination that is accessible to everyone.
What did the feasibility study entail?
Over the past three years the club conducted a thorough investigation into our current facilities at Waverley Park, and the potential for expansion and growth was explored.
A facility committee was established to oversee the study and regularly reported its findings to the Board.
The Board, leadership group, coaching and administration staff were consulted extensively throughout the process.
In November 2014, an overseas study tour was undertaken to research elite training and administration facilities in the UK and USA.
The process also included research of 15-20 potential sites in Melbourne’s south eastern corridor. Following that, a shortlist of alternative sites was established and further research conducted into each of them based on criteria that included size, accessibility and capability.
Why the land at Dingley?
After mapping several parcels of land around Melbourne, the 28 hectare site in Dingley was one of the largest and closest sites to CBD, making it attractive for member interaction, community engagement, future expansion, drive times, etc.
This central location complements our strategy to be the destination club, and elite facilities means we are better able to retain and attract talent.
How big is the site?
The site is approximately 28 hectares, which is large enough to accommodate at least approximately five MCG size ovals in addition to facility infrastructure. We would point out that any plans for development are still hypothetical while the in-depth study remains ongoing.
How long will the drive be?
The Dingley site is approximately the same distance to Melbourne’s CBD as Waverley Park.
Does this conditional offer of purchase on the land in Dingley mean that the club is definitely moving from Waverley Park?
The result of our exhaustive study into Waverley Park found we will be unable to expand, grow and develop at the current site and as such we need to explore alternate locations to future-proof the club.
What happens if the club does not wish to proceed with the purchase after the 18 month due diligence period?
Our extensive research up to this point indicates the Dingley site will be compatible with our needs, however should the results of further study over the next eighteen months not be favourable, we are prepared to investigate other options.
It is important to note that the club has the right not to proceed with the sale at any time during the 18 month due diligence period.
How much does the land cost?
We will only purchase the land after in-depth study and analysis proves that the site will meet the club’s long-term needs, and this process will take approximately 18 months.
The land purchase price is between $7 and $8 million.
How much will the development of a new elite training and administration facility cost, and how is the club going to pay for it?
This project is in the exploration phase and any potential development would be a 5-10 year undertaking.
Costs will be reflected in what decisions the club makes as to the long-term strategy of its facility.
In this early stage, it’s difficult to estimate how much the project will cost as the fuller details of our plans for an elite training, administration and community facility will be developed over time in consultation with a range of stakeholders, including our members.
The Dingley site is a solid inert land fill site. Is it really suitable for our future facility?
The Dingley site is a solid inert land fill site, which was used for discarded building rubble etc.
Should it meet our needs, this site will allow us to undertake a state-of-the-art repurpose of the site in an environmentally responsible way.
Development of facilities such as shopping centres and commercial facilities is not uncommon on similar sites.
Does the Dingley site allow for future expansion?
Yes, if we were to go ahead this project it will future proof the club for 100+ years. The 28 hectare site has been selected due to its size, proximity to the inner metropolitan area and ability to meet the club’s long-term facility needs.
What will the new facility development include?
As we have 18 months to conduct further in-depth study and analysis to establish whether this site meets our needs, it would be speculative to detail plans of any potential development.
Our aim is twofold: to provide the world’s best training and administration facility, and a home where our valued members and supporters feel welcomed and engaged.
What are the timelines for this project?
The club has 18 months to conduct further research on the land to determine if it suits the club’s long-term needs. In addition to that, any potential development would be 5-10 year project.
Will members be informed throughout the process?
We will keep our members, supporters and the local community informed of the process and any decisions regarding the club’s facility plans.
What will happen to Waverley Park if you move?
A decision regarding the future of Waverley Park will take place in consultation with the local community, council and other key stakeholders to identify the best use of the facilities.
Any potential relocation would be 5-10 years away and as such a decision regarding the future of Waverley has not been made yet.
What part will Glenferrie Oval play in the club’s future?
Glenferrie Oval will always be traditional Hawthorn FC heartland and this will never change. Whatever our long-term vision, Glenferrie Oval will play a part in this – Glenferrie is an enduring part of our history and will remain.
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