Kingston is moving forward with a sporting facility improvement plan for Kingston Heath Reserve.
The plan, that is set out in three stages, was the subject of an extensive round of community consultation in September and October, with over 80% of respondents expressing strong support.
Stage 1 includes the construction of a new additional synthetic hockey field including sports lighting and supporting hockey infrastructure (shelters, goals, netting, etc), formalising an emergency access path, the relocation and renewal of cricket nets adjacent to the hockey field, and relocation of the cricket oval to the west of the reserve to be co-located with the existing baseball diamond.
Kingston Mayor Hadi Saab said the plan was developed in response to a sporting needs analysis which recognised an immediate need for an additional hockey field within Kingston, and subsequent site feasibility assessment which identified Kingston Heath Reserve as the preferred location for an additional hockey field.
"Funding for Stage 1 of the plan will now be prioritised in the development of future Council budgets and the review of the Long Term Financial Plan - and again highlights our commitment to supporting our local clubs, addressing barriers to participation, increasing participation rates, and assisting in the promotion of healthy active lifestyles for the community," Cr Saab said.
Chicquita Ward Councillor Tracey Davies said it is particularly pleasing to be able to support an inclusive sport like hockey to secure the facilities they need now and into the future.
"With over 500 players across 35 teams, Southern United Hockey Club is the largest in our region and the extra field will allow for over 40 hours per week of additional training and playing opportunities," Cr Davies said.
"We were really encouraged by the strong community interest and feedback we received via our online survey and drop-in session, and we are confident the plan strikes the right balance between providing the necessary sporting facilities and ensuring open space is maintained at Kingston Heath."
Stage 2 of the plan includes the installation of synthetic turf on the in-field of the main baseball field, new sports lighting, new baseball fencing and supporting infrastructure (players/officials shelters and ball stop netting) on the two baseball fields in the northeast to improve player, spectator, and pedestrian safety. Stage 3 will focus on the construction of a new facility adjacent the new hockey field to include change rooms and public viewing space.
