AFL has proprosed a $1.4m upgrade of Newcastle No.1 Sportsground, identifying it as a missing piece' in the southern code's expansion into NSW.
Members of the NSW/ACT AFL, the state-based representative of the AFL, will brief Newcastle City Council’s recreation advisory committee on the upgrading proposal today.
NSW/ACT hopes to bring Sydney Swans of GWS Giants pre-season matches to Newcastle, but requires an adequate venue.
Under the proposal No.1 Sportsground’s playing surface would be enlarged from 144 x 134 metres to 157 x 135 metres, as it is inadequate for elite Aussie Rules.
These changes would make the ground marginally longer than the SCG and the same width.
The drainage and irrigation systems would be replaced, as well as amenities and the change rooms.
To make the ground suitable for night-time AFL and cricket matches, lighting would be upgraded to 500 lux and electronic scoreboard and safety netting would be installed.
NSW/ACT facilities and projects manager Joseph La Posta said today’s meeting was a chance to gather feedback and suggestions.
If the development progressed further Mr La Posta said the AFL would look to gain the council’s support in attracting state and federal government funding.
“There’s no doubt AFL would be a contributor to the proposal, but we don’t have the capacity to fully fund these sort of projects,” he said.
The AFL has elite venues in Sydney, Coffs Harbour and Canberra, while Wagga Wagga and Albury are earmarked for upgrades.
“No doubt you’re a growing region and very important to us in terms of Hunter-central Coast region” Mr La Posta said.
“You’re almost the missing piece in the puzzle in terms of having a venue up there to hopefully engage your residents and your region.”
Newcastle District Cricket Association has already given its support for the AFL’s proposal.
Any improvements to No.1 Sportsground would also boost any future bid for a Newcastle franchise in the new city-based Twenty20 Big Bash cricket competition.
No.1 Sportsground will host a game between the Swans and Canberra team Ainslie in the North East AFL on May 28, to test the support for the code in Newcastle.
The NEAFL is a tier below the AFL and is the leading competition in NSW, ACT. Queensland and the Northern Territory.
Last Modified on 27/08/2012 20:53