Architects appointed for Commonwealth Games stadium upgrade

The Victorian government has appointed Cox Architecture and Ballarat firm Morton and Co Architects to design the $150 million upgrade to Eureka Stadium for the 2026 Commonwealth Games.

The redevelopment works will include an additional 5,000 permanent seats, as well as 18,000 temporary seats for the games, improved accessibility, and a competition-standard track on the existing playing field.

The government said the upgrades will enhance spectator experiences at the stadium.

Eureka Stadium was originally built in 1990 and redeveloped in 2017 to a design by Peddle Thorp.

For the games, the stadium will host athletics and para-athletics. Ballarat will also host the marathon, boxing and mountain bike racing events.

An athletes' village, which will accommodate 1,800 athletes and officials and contribute to the city's long-term housing needs, will also be built in Ballarat.

The city's railway station will receive a $50 million upgrade.

Five regional cities will host the 2026 Commonwealth Games: Ballarat, Geelong, Bendigo, Gippsland and Shepparton.