A $2 million facelift for Macquarie Field is set to enhance the local football scene with construction on new seating, amenities, canteen and shared pathway underway.
Lake Macquarie Mayor Adam Shultz said the upgrades will provide a significant boost to the community, improving facilities for players, spectators and local sports clubs.
"Investing in local sporting infrastructure helps strengthen our community and encourages more people to get involved in sport," he said.
"We've prioritised accessibility in these upgrades to ensure everyone in the community can fully enjoy and benefit from the improved facilities."
Once complete, the grounds will boast seating for 200 people – including accessible seating, two sports changerooms, referee amenities, public restrooms, an accessible bathroom, a canteen and storage areas as well as accessible parking spaces and connecting pathway.
It comes as the existing grandstand and sports facilities, originally built in 1972, reach the end of their shelf life.
Club President of Lake Macquarie City Football Club Gary Griffin said the upgrades were a welcome addition for the club, which competes in the National Premier Leagues and Women's National Premier Leagues.
"This year's community teams feature more female players than male players, so these enhancements ensure the facility can fully support this expansion and be inclusive," he said.
"The club is set to offer top-tier facilities that will be a source of pride for the local community."
"The flood-resilience improvements ensure the ground remains usable for extended periods, creating more opportunities for the broader community to host events and make full use of the venue."
Lake Macquarie City Football Club Player Ruby McLaren, who plays in the Under 16's, said the upgrades would give her a better platform to achieve her sporting goals.
"I've been playing since I was six years old and one day I hope to play for the Matildas," she said.
"The upgrades will be better for everyone - it means that I will get a better view watching the teams from the new grandstand and we will be able to get a better touch on the ball when playing."
"I enjoy football because it's something I can do with a bunch of friends and involves teamwork, communication and a lot of different practices."
The project is expected to be complete in late 2025.
