Lake Macquarie City Council has secured $4.6 million towards the next stage of the Belmont Sports Complex redevelopment, helping advance plans for what will become one of the region's premier sports precincts.
The funding will support construction of Barton 1 Field, including a new playing surface, drainage and irrigation systems, fencing, pathways and landscaping, as well as a new main entrance to the complex from Maude Street.
The project marks the next step towards delivering the Belmont Sports Complex Master Plan, and follows completion in March of the precinct's first stage, including graded sporting fields, amenities buildings and netball courts.
The $4.6 million in funding has been provided for the next stage of work through the Australian Government's Major and Local Community Infrastructure Program. Council has allocated $1.7 million for development of the future stages.
Federal Member for Shortland, Pat Conroy MP, said it was great to see Lake Macquarie's sporting community have access to quality sporting facilities.
"I'm proud to continue to support the Belmont Sports Complex. This $4.6 million investment will ensure locals have access to top-quality sporting facilities right in their own backyard," he said.
"Lake Macquarie has a thriving sporting community, and this investment will help our local clubs and players have access to the facilities they deserve. This is great news for local players and their families."
Lake Macquarie Mayor Adam Shultz said the funding allowed momentum to continue to transform the complex into one of the leading team sports facilities in NSW.
"We've already seen the benefits of the first stage of works and this next phase will further improve the experience for local sporting clubs, athletes, officials and spectators," he said.
Barton 1 Field is set to become the centrepiece of the precinct, with works including new irrigation and drainage systems, a refurbished playing surface and improved pedestrian connections around the ground.
The new Maude Street entrance will feature an access road, entry signage, parking and pedestrian pathways.
Mayor Adam said the works formed part of Council's long-term vision for Belmont Sports Complex.
"Once fully realised, Belmont Sports Complex will be capable of supporting larger regional competitions while continuing to meet the needs of local sporting clubs and the broader community," he said.
"Investment from all levels of government is helping deliver that vision and ensure Lake Macquarie has the sporting infrastructure needed for future generations."
The works form part of approximately $20 million in future upgrade stages identified in the Belmont Sports Complex Master Plan.
Detailed design work is scheduled for 2026-27, with construction of Barton 1 Field expected to occur in 2027-28 and the Maude Street entrance planned for 2028-29.
Future stages of the master plan include additional sporting fields, practice facilities, parking upgrades, a central promenade and new amenities for Barton 1 Field.
Go to lakemac.com.au
