George Thornton Reserve is set to become the newest stomping ground for aspiring footballers and cricketers in the Hills District with over $980,000 in NSW Government funding supporting the cause.
Minister for Sport Alister Henskens said the project, which includes the construction of a third full-sized football field and new cricket practice nets, would service the many needs of sporting organisations and community groups in the local area.
"The NSW Liberal Government is committed to ensuring quality grassroots sports facilities across the State that everyone can enjoy," Mr Henskens said.
"The upgrades at George Thornton Reserve are part of the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government's implementing a plan to provide even more opportunity for locals and visitors to engage in sport and recreation, which is vital for bringing the community together, and inspire our next generation of sporting superstars."
The project has been made possible thanks to a NSW Government grant of $984,556 through the Greater Cities Sport Facility Fund.
Mayor of The Hills Shire Dr Peter Gangemi said he was happy to see work commencing on this project, which highlights Council's commitment to providing community-based sport and leisure opportunities.
"Today marks a milestone achievement for this Council as we look to maximise this sporting facility for residents of West Pennant Hills," Mayor Gangemi said.
"As a Council, we are committed to providing the facilities that our growing community needs so that they have every opportunity to be active.
"Our plans for George Thornton Reserve achieve this and will support our current and future residents for years to come," he added.
Mayor Gangemi thanked the NSW Government for its support and contribution to the project.
"This grant is about recognising the integral role our sporting facilities play in promoting health, wellbeing, community connectedness and inclusivity. Thank you to the NSW Government and the Office of Sport, for allowing us to inspire even more people to keep active and play the game that they love," Mayor Gangemi added.
WEM, who are carrying out the Reserve upgrade, said they were excited to be part of the project.
"This will be our fifth recreational project partnering with The Hills Shire in the last five years, and we're looking forward to creating more spaces for the community to enjoy for years to come," WEM Project Manager, Ryan Noney said.
The George Thornton Reserve upgrade is set to be completed by early 2024 with weather permitting.
For more information, visit The Hills Shire Council's website, www.thehills.nsw.gov.au and search "George Thornton Reserve Field Extension".
