Hobart's major cricket venue, the Bellerive Oval - also known as the Blundstone Arena - is being upgraded to the tune of A$30m (£18,2m, €21,4m, US$28,5m).

The project, which is being financed by the Tasmanian State Government and the Australian Federal Government, will see the oval's capacity increase to almost 20,000 seats from its current 16,000. The redevelopment will include the construction of a new western stand, a new concourse and gate entry area, a revamp of southern stand catering facilities and increased kiosk and toilet facilities on the hill.

Cricket Australia said the development would be part of the state's bid to stage some of the matches of the ICC Cricket World Cup in 2015. The tournament will be jointly hosted by Australia and New Zealand. The venue’s redesign was undertaken by dwpSuters and ARTAS Architects. Commenting on the project, Suters senior associate, Mike McGrath said the architecture was inspired by the sailboats on the Derwent River.