ST JOHN’S, Antigua, CMC – Cricket West Indies has hailed a “new frontier” as the governing body gets ready to begin the final stage of infrastructural work on its headquarters, the Coolidge Cricket Ground, later this year.
The 20-acre facility, purchased recently by CWI, is expected to be transformed into a “cricket and cultural heritage centre” which will include an Emerging Players Academy with state-of-the art amenities to enhance player development.
“A strategic approach to master planning of the facility is well underway and we are stepping into a new frontier as we seek to make CCG the ‘flagship’ where players from the grassroots to the international level can develop and hone their technical and mental skills,” said CCG general manager, Nelecia Yeates.
“We envision the CCG of the future as a truly world-class facility with all the amenities.
“Fans attending matches at the ‘new CCG’ will also have an exceptional spectator experience. We will leave no stone unturned as we hold firm to the commitment and belief that all islands of the Caribbean can be the birthplace of greatness in our sport, both on and off the field.”
CWI has appointed a project team comprising CJC + Associates Inc, KSS Design Group Ltd and Melon Design Architecture, which have been tasked with designing a concept master plan.
The team is expected to submit the master plan for costing approval in coming months and CWI president Ricky Skerritt said he was looking forward to seeing the project unfold.
“We were hugely impressed by the quality of all the responses for our Request for Proposals,” said Skerritt.
“But the level of information showcased in the design collective proposal was both impressive and inspiring.
“The winners have shown exceptional talent and promise, and aligned well with CWI’s vision to create a uniquely West Indian and world class cricket and heritage centre.”
Coolidge has become a regular venue for international cricket with several T20 Internationals already being hosted as the venue.
CWI also moved their offices from the longstanding Factory Road to Coolidge four months ago.
