The draft 2020/2021 Budget will fund upgrades to sports and recreation infrastructure across Greater Bendigo, simultaneously boosting the economy and creating local jobs.
Projects to get the green light include the commencement of a new pavilion at Kennington Recreation Reserve (Harry Trott Oval), in partnership with the State Government which has contributed $2M toward the project, tennis court renewal at Eaglehawk, and design of a junior oval and renewal of oval lighting at Strauch Recreation Reserve Huntly.
Other projects include the construction of cricket nets at White Hills (subject to a State Government grant application), a new spectator shelter and replacement of the synthetic soccer pitch at Epsom Huntly Recreation Reserve, and stage 1 of renewal works at Tom Flood oval.
The Budget also implements stage 1 of the Wolstencroft Reserve Masterplan and renewal of the Grevillea Road playspace in Huntly.
Mayor Cr Margaret O’Rourke said Councillors had focused on progressing projects and priorities named in the Community Plan that support residents to live healthy, active and connected lives.
“Sport and recreation facilities are a fundamental part of community life in Greater Bendigo and it’s important we keep upgrading these facilities to keep them in good condition,” Cr O’Rourke said.
“With a growing population, our sporting facilities are being used more and more, so Council has used its final Budget to deliver these priority recreation projects and ensure a range of communities and sporting groups benefit.
“These projects, along with all the other capital or renewal works this Budget funds, will also continue to support the local economy though the use of various local contractors.
“Council will also continue to lobby the State and Federal Governments to fund similar additional projects that will further benefit the local economy and community.”
To support local sporting clubs impacted by COVID-19, the draft Budget proposes to reduce rent/fees for affected community and sporting groups using Council-owned land/grounds and a 50 per cent reduction in commercial rent for affected Council tenants from June 30, 2020 to December 31, 2020.
To view the draft Budget, go to www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/budget
