The facility planning process can be long and extensive. Whilst extensive, the effort involved in planning, will pay significant dividends once the facility is constructed and operational. A large facility development is often a once in a generation project. As such it is important to get it right.
The steps below highlight a typical facility planning process from initial idea through to construction. The level of detail required in each stage of the process will depend on the scale of the project, but typically the key principles and steps remain the same.
Stage 1 – Needs Assessment
- Key questions – what do we want to achieve, why and who for?
- Key information – what are the local demographic growth trends, who are our key local partners (Council, other clubs & community organisations) and what do they wish to achieve?
- Decision point – is it better utilise our existing facility, upgrade our existing facility or build a new facility?
Stage 2 – Feasibility & Site Assessment
- Key questions – what do we wish to build, where do we build it, how much will it cost, who are the funding partners and how do we make it work?
- Key information – conduct a site assessment, visit other new facilities, consult with key partners, prepare draft concept and management plans, analyse management, operational and life cycle costs. See the Football Facilities Audit results below to inform your club’s project priorities.
- Decision point – shall we proceed, modify, postpone or stage the development, or abandon the proposal?
Stage 3 – Detailed Design & Costing
- Key questions – what scale of facility do we need?
- Key information – prepare a design brief, prepare a project budget, seek the necessary approvals, appoint a design team, develop detailed designs and costings. See the AFL Preferred Facility Guidelines below for help.
Stage 4 – Construction
- Facility construction and commissioning.
