The Western Australian Cricket Association has welcomed the new Western Australian Government’s approval of the revised Riverside Master Plan, of which the proposed redevelopment of the WACA Ground is a key component.

The plans to redevelop the WACA Ground into a world-class 25,000 capacity, as well as commercial, retail and residential opportunities, would see the historic venue remain as the home of cricket in Western Australia, whilst also securing the financial viability of the sport in this state.

"I would like to thank the Western Australian Government, and in particular new Planning Minister John Day, for their support of the WACA Ground redevelopment," WACA Chief Executive Officer Graeme Wood said.

"The announcement by the Planning Minister made on 26 November 2008, allows the WACA to continue to work with Ascot Capital Limited, our joint venture partner, and to finalise the Development Agreement for the proposed WACA redevelopment.

"This Agreement, and all development issues and proposals, would then be presented to a WACA Membership forum for approval early in the New Year.

"We would like to acknowledge and publicly thank the East Perth Redevelopment Authority for their assistance, and we look forward to working with them as well as other stakeholders involved in this process, including the City of Perth, Trinity College and the Western Australian Trotting Association."

WACA Chairman David Williams said: "The WACA redevelopment is a ground breaking project marrying the State’s iconic cricket ground with an exciting commercial and residential development at the gateway to Perth.

"The Government approval marks an important milestone along what will be a long journey over many years to complete this development for the betterment of cricket."

The East Perth Redevelopment Authority (EPRA) invites the WACA and all other interested parties to provide comment on the proposed Riverside Scheme Amendment and Waterbank draft Design Guidelines by Wednesday, 28 November 2009.