Constructed in 1959, the entrance to the oval is of local heritage value, established as a memorial to honour those who gave their lives in World Wars I and II. Pine trees that circle the oval were planted as a memorial to the fallen soldiers and are also heritage listed.
The Virginia Oval is a busy hub of activity in the township, with the facility supporting a range of sport and recreational uses.
The existing entrance gates are not wide enough for two cars to pass simultaneously, which can cause a backlog of vehicles both on the driveway and along Old Port Wakefield Road through to Park Road.
While undertaking the upgrade of Old Port Wakefield Road, Virginia, sporting clubs and local residents approached Council with their concerns around traffic flow in and out of the single-lane entrance gates.
This prompted Council to explore options for widening the entrance to accommodate two-way traffic access.
The concept for the proposed upgrade of the Virginia Oval entrance includes a feature comprising four brick pillars to the left of the entrance, reminiscent of the existing brickwork. The pillars will display the original plaque and a new modern steel Virginia Oval sign.
The proposal respects the site’s local significance, preserves and restores the memorial plaque and complements the heritage of the entrance, while providing improved access.
However, widening the entrance means memorial elements will be impacted, including the existing brick pillars and metal gates, which have been assessed to be in poor condition.
Mayor Glenn Docherty said the upgrade of the Virginia Oval entrance will support the growing community of Virginia.
“Virginia Oval is an iconic and very popular site for the community of Virginia and will be increasingly used as Virginia continues to grow. It is therefore important that the entrance to the oval can safely and smoothly accommodate traffic,” said Mayor Docherty.
“Council is aware of the local heritage significance of the site and has developed a proposed concept that retains the original entrance memorial elements where possible while also providing a contemporary and widened entrance that addresses the traffic challenges the community has expressed to us.”
The proposed upgrade of the Virginia Oval entrance will also complement Council’s upgrade of the main street of Virginia which is anticipated to be complete by the end of 2023.
As the Virginia Oval entrance is a local heritage place, Council is keen to understand if the community wants this project to go ahead, as the entrance cannot be widened without also upgrading the memorial elements.
To provide your feedback on whether you would like to see the upgrade go ahead, please go to City of Playford’s Engagement Hub or scan the QR Code and submit before 5pm, Tuesday 14 November 2023.
The feedback provided during this engagement process will inform Council’s decision-making process. The concept design is available for viewing through City of Playford’s Engagement Hub.
