TIDCO invites bids for TN’s 2nd international cricket stadium in Coimbatore

CHENNAI: Marking a major stride in Tamil Nadu's sporting infrastructure, the Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation (TIDCO) on Friday officially invited Expressions of Interest (EoIs) for the development of an international cricket stadium and an adjoining commercial complex in Coimbatore through the public-private partnership (PPP) model.

The project, to be executed on a Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer basis, aims to position Coimbatore as a premier cricketing destination in South India. This will be Tamil Nadu’s second international cricket stadium, after MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

According to the EoI document, the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT) will serve as the project proponent, while TIDCO will act as the implementing agency.

The proposed development will cover a total area of 30.18 acres, with the cricket stadium coming up on a 20.18-acre site along the Coimbatore–Tiruchirappalli National Highway (NH-81), and a commercial complex spread over an adjoining 10-acre parcel.

The international-standard stadium will boast a seating capacity of 25,000 to 30,000 spectators, complemented by corporate boxes, media and press facilities, VIP lounges, player amenities, spectator conveniences, retail spaces, and extensive parking. The project also includes outdoor practice nets and a range of allied facilities to meet the requirements of global cricketing events.

The commercial complex, to be developed on a lease basis, will feature retail and office spaces, providing the concessionaire with exclusive rights to operate and maintain the facility for a 60-year concession period. However, the development of the stadium will remain the minimum development obligation (MDO) under the agreement.

The stadium was part of the DMK’s 2024 Lok Sabha polls manifesto. Sports minister Udhayanidhi Stalin had held a pre-bid consultation for the project last year.

The selected private partner will form a special purpose vehicle (SPV) to execute the project, with the SDAT holding a ‘golden equity share’ and two board seats reserved for TIDCO/SDAT representatives to ensure public oversight.

According to the State government, the Coimbatore stadium will not only host national and international matches but also act as a multi-utility venue that nurtures regional sporting talent and boosts the city’s economic and urban development.