Large-scale sporting events have a new home on the Central Coast thanks to the $23.72million Central Coast Regional Sporting and Recreation Complex, which officially opened today in Tuggerah.
Liberal Senator for New South Wales Arthur Sinodinos, who attended the opening today, said the impressive new sports fields will host a number of sporting codes, including rugby league, AFL and soccer, encouraging more locals to play sport.
"Boasting a premier field for rugby and soccer, an AFL oval, four rugby fields, three soccer fields and three cricket pitches there is something for everyone at this first class sporting complex," Senator Sinodinos said.
"With the Central Coast projected to grow by 70,000 people by 2031, the new complex, complete with a new amenities building, light towers and car parking, will cater to the ever expanding needs of the community."
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the state-of-the-art facility is expected to generate an additional 57,000 visitors to the area each year.
"Ideally located near the northern rail line and M1 motorway and providing direct links to Sydney and Newcastle, we expect an increase in the number of players and spectators to visit the complex for a range of competitions and events," Mr McCormack said.
"The project, which supported 70 jobs during construction and creates an expected 28 ongoing local jobs, has provided the first and only facility in the region capable of hosting major national, state and local sporting events."
Central Coast Mayor Jane Smith said the delivery of this $23.7million project is a great example of how two levels of government can work together to achieve excellent outcomes for our community, and that Council was appreciative of the $10million investment the Australian Government has made to the Central Coast region.
"Council are continuing to progress plans for the second stage works which will see the development of a multi-purpose indoor complex and once complete will be the first-of-its-kind facility for our region," Mayor Smith said.
The Liberal National Government committed $10million to the project under the National Stronger Regions Fund, which has invested more than $611million in infrastructure projects across Australia. This initiative focuses on strengthening Australia's regions by improving the productivity, employment and workforce skills of regional Australians, while delivering a lasting economic benefit.
The Central Coast Council committed a further $13.72million to fund the project.
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