Sporting precinct reaches next milestone
Published on 21 August 2024
Work to prepare land at Mernda for the future Regional Sports Precinct will soon begin after a contract for the groundworks was awarded at Tuesday night’s Council Meeting.
The City of Whittlesea has appointed a contractor to conduct preliminary earthworks on the Everton Drive site including rock removal, site levelling, installation of retaining walls and creation of a wetland in the southern part of the block.
The Regional Sports Precinct will allow residents of all ages and abilities to play the sports they love without having to travel outside the municipality.
The precinct, which is currently in the design phase, includes an indoor stadium housing four multi-purpose courts, supported by funding from the Victorian Government.
Other elements of the precinct will include shared paths, outdoor netball courts and areas for passive recreation.
The preliminary works package will prepare the site ahead of a tender process for the precinct’s construction contract next year.
City of Whittlesea Chair Administrator Lydia Wilson said awarding the contract represented another important milestone for the project.
“The Regional Sports Precinct is Council’s single largest investment in social infrastructure and its benefits will be felt for generations to come,” she said.
“This precinct is more than just a place for sport; it’s a vital community hub that will enhance the wellbeing of the whole region. By investing in this project, we’re ensuring that future generations have access to first-class facilities right in their own backyard, fostering a healthier and more connected community,” she added.
Construction is continuing on the extension of Everton Drive to create a new, traffic light-controlled intersection with Plenty Road.
The intersection will help to reduce congestion around Mernda and provide safe and convenient access to the sports precinct via Everton Drive.