Demolition has begun and construction will soon get underway on the new multi-purpose amenities building at Tomaree Sports Complex.
The $3.2 million project is funded by Port Stephens Council and the NSW Government's Stronger Country Communities fund and aims to improve the lives of the community by increasing accessibility, inclusion and wellbeing.
Port Stephens Mayor Ryan Palmer says it will be a game-changer for the region.
"The new facility will feature accessible amenities, change rooms, storage rooms, canteen, a multipurpose room for training and events, a meeting room for sporting clubs and youth services, referee's rooms and a first aid room.
"We know there are more than 2000 registered players who use the Tomaree Sports Complex for cricket, touch football, soccer and AFL that are set to benefit from this upgrade.
"But this is so much more than an amenities building. As well as catering to our sporting community, the new multi-purpose facility will create spaces for young people to connect with each other and valuable services.
"The space will also help us attract more events and visitors to the region, which will have positive economic benefits for our community and local businesses. Thousands of people attend events at the complex every year and we anticipate that number will grow with better facilities.
"Plus, these types of spaces can help create a sense of community and become a hub for events, meetings and workshops. It's all about improving the mental and physical health of our community through better infrastructure," he said.
"The new multi-purpose amenities building is also an example of the power of sporting clubs and our Council working together.
"The project would not have been possible without the strategic vision and teamwork of the Tomaree Sports Council — particularly the soccer, touch football and cricket clubs who have contributed club and grant money towards the project," he said.
Council's Community and Recreation Coordinator Brock Lamont says this is the first step in a much bigger plan.
"We released our Master Plan for the Tomaree Sports Complex site in 2018 and this project was identified as the key infrastructure priority. These facilities will improve community sport and attract events to the complex for years to come."
Construction is scheduled to be completed early 2022.
Stay up to date on all projects and works at portstephens.nsw.gov.au/projects
