The demolition process is underway at Melville Oval as part of the $8.4m facility redevelopment by Southern Grampians Shire Council to deliver a bigger and better sporting facility to Hamilton.
Contractors have been on site to safely remove asbestos from various structures and Murrihy Demolition Pty Ltd will start removing the rear section of the heritage grandstand and the nearby shed and club shelter next week, weather dependent.
They'll also remove the parameter fence at Market Place (a parameter fence will be retained on the reserve to support future ticketed events), oval spectator seating, part of the oval fencing and some trees and hedges throughout the site.
Once demolition is completed, the site will undergo earthworks and ground levelling in preparation for the construction of the new netball courts and pavilion this September by lead contractor Ultrabuild Pty Ltd.
Mayor Councillor David Robertson said many residents he'd spoken to had indicated they were pleased to see the much-anticipated project now underway.
"The new facilities, including a full refurbishment under the grandstand, will result in a significant improvement for the reserve's user groups and broader community," said Cr Robertson.
The Mayor set a reminder that Council was accepting public feedback until August 12 regarding the proposed partial road closure at Market Place.
"By rezoning some sections of the roadside reserve to be part of the Melville Oval precinct, we'll be able to successfully make room for the new netball courts and pavilion," he said.
"If residents have any thoughts around this proposal, they are invited to put them in writing, addressed to the CEO."
The public is encouraged to follow any safety signage at the site for the duration of the project.
