Gillard announces $186m Sydney Cricket Ground renovation plan for 2014 Ashes

Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard has announced a 186 million dollar plan to renovate three stands and install a big screen at the Sydney Cricket Ground for the 2014 Ashes series.

"This ground has wonderful history and we want to honour that history by making sure we preserve and also make this ground ready for the future. That does mean that three stands need redevelopment," The Sydney Morning Herald quoted Gillard, as saying.

The New South Wales government would contribute 86 million dollars and the Australian government and Sydney Cricket and Sports Ground Trust have vowed to contribute 50 million dollars each.

The reconstruction work would begin at the Messenger, Bradman and Noble, and would likely be completed within two years.

The renovation plans also includes proposals to remove columns in the new seating areas and ensuring that upto 85 percent of seats are under cover.

A 700-person dining room, three new bar areas and secure player facilities are also part of the plan. (ANI)