Howzat! Post-Tensioning for the WACA Redevelopment
The $154.7 million redevelopment of the iconic Western Australian Cricket Association (WACA) Ground is setting a new benchmark in community and sporting infrastructure.
Designed by Cox Architecture and Landscape Architects, Plan E, and delivered by builder ADCO, the project will transform the WACA into a vibrant 10,000-seat, multi-sport, and community facility by 2025.
Major features include a community resort-style pool, public health and fitness centre, high-performance cricket centre, café, event and function spaces, and a state-of-the-art museum celebrating the WACA’s rich history.
Interspan’s Role in Delivering Post-Tensioned Solutions
ADCO engaged Interspan to deliver 7,498 square metres of post-tensioned slabs across the development, providing the structural backbone that enables large spans, open spaces, and enhanced durability.
Advanced Engineering for Structural Efficiency
Our scope included the complete design, supply, and meticulous installation of post-tensioned concrete slabs. Guided by Interspan’s expert design team, we used advanced engineering software — RamConcept and RAPT — to optimise slab performance, improve construction efficiency, and meet the project’s tight timelines.
Key post-tensioning innovations on this project included the use of Surelok Temporary Moving Joints (TMJS) and grouted dowel bars to manage slab movement and ensure long-term performance under dynamic loading conditions.
By integrating post-tensioning into the design, the WACA redevelopment achieves:
- Greater structural efficiency, reducing material use and embodied carbon.
- Wider open spaces with fewer columns, supporting flexible community and sporting uses.
- Enhanced slab durability, extending service life and reducing maintenance requirements.
Building an Inclusive and Accessible Community Space
Inclusion is also central to the WACA’s vision, with new sensory rooms, an all-abilities playground, and ‘Changing Places’ change rooms ensuring accessibility for all. The revitalised museum will honour both the sporting legends who have graced the WACA and the traditional owners of the land.
Interspan is proud to contribute our post-tensioning expertise to this transformative project, which will strengthen the future of sport and community engagement in East Perth.
Image credit: ADCO & WACA
SPECIALIST SLAB POST-TENSIONING
At Interspan, we firmly believe in fostering collaborative relationships with our clients to identify and implement solutions that meet their specific needs and projects. Our approach revolves around customer-centricity, emphasising partnership, innovation, and excellence. As a result, we have established ourselves as a trusted and dependable partner for businesses worldwide.
REASONS TO USE POST-TENSIONED CONCRETE:
- Increased clear spans
- Thinner slabs
- Lighter structures; reduced floor dead loads
- Reduced cracking and deflection
- Reduced storey height
- Rapid construction
- Large reduction in conventional reinforcement
- Higher degree of crack control
Post-tensioning is a powerful technique that can enable reductions in materials and carbon emissions through effective design within the construction industry. By adopting post-tensioning, we can build more sustainable, resilient, and environmentally friendly structures, paving the way for a greener future.
