Construction begins on $1.45M Lemongrove upgrade

From left, Council Administrator Rik Hart, Ettalong Eagles Netball Club players Taylah Sankey and Sophie Planicka and Woy Woy Peninsula Netball Association President Sharon Bailey

Construction of a $1.45M new amenities building and clubhouse is now underway at Lemon Grove Netball Courts in Ettalong with players expected to be back on court by May.

Construction began in mid-December to demolish and rebuild both the existing clubhouse and toilet buildings.

The design includes accessible toilets, a change room, canteen, control room, media room, clubroom and storage areas, to help meet the needs of current and future users.

Woy Woy Peninsula Netball Association President Sharon Bailey said the club was excited by the new clubhouse and sports amenities project.

“This project has been in planning for a number of years following a substantial grant from the Australian Government,” Bailey said.

“We look forward to working closely with Central Coast Council to deliver a new clubhouse, canteen and amenities for our members and a wonderful facility for our netball community.”

The project was promised by the Federal Government in the 2019 election campaign.

Member for Robertson Lucy Wicks said the original amenities and clubhouse at Lemongrove Netball Courts were rundown and not fit-for-purpose.

“The Peninsula Netball Club needs facilities that reflect the growing population in our region and provide accessibility for people with a disability and the ageing population,” Wicks said.

Construction is due for completion by May 2022 (subject to weather impacts) with the construction schedule designed to minimise user impact.

Once complete, the new amenities building will complement the resurfaced netball courts and lighting upgrades that Council undertook in 2019.

Central Coast Council Administrator Rik Hart said the Australian Government’s funding had enabled Council to undertake the valued community project.

“This project will deliver a significantly improved and accessible facility for the benefit of Woy Woy Peninsula Netball Association, local netball clubs and their players and supporters,” Hart said.

“Council remains committed to delivering and maintaining quality sports facilities across the Central Coast region, and this project demonstrates what positive outcomes can be sought for our community through collaborative partnership.”

The project is funded by the Federal Government under the Community Development Grants Program.

Maisy Rae