By Stephanie Roberts
MELBOURNE Plans to expand the Melbourne Exhibition and Convention Centre (MECC) are still on hold, awaiting state government approval.
"Following a change in government at the end of last year, the expansion plans were naturally put on hold," said MECC chief executive officer Mr Leigh Harry.
"Discussions are ongoing with the government and we are hopeful of approval in the coming months to commence construction."
Plans to build a 5,000-seat plenary facility and breakout rooms next to the MECC have been approved by the Melbourne Convention and Marketing Bureau.
If approved by the state government, the MECC will become Australia's largest centre of meeting and exhibition facilities.
"It will be essential if Melbourne is to build on its success as an international convention destination," Mr Harry added.
Melbourne is gearing up to receive more visitors once the expansion plans have been agreed.
"Melbourne has a capacity of 14,000 hotel rooms, including the recently opened Westin and Park Hyatt and there are also plans to build a 500-room hotel close to the MECC," Mr Harry said.
The MECC is now undergoing a A$26million (US$15million) upgrade of its facilities and has been voted "Best Congress Centre" by the Association Internationale des Palais des Congrés, the first time this award has been presented.
Melbourne expansion hit by planning delays - Oct 00
MELBOURNE Plans to expand the Melbourne Exhibition and Convention Centre (MECC) are still on hold, awaiting state government approval. "Following a change in government at the end of last year, the expansion plans were naturally put on hold," said MECC chief executive officer Mr Leigh Harry
