City of Whittlesea has signed off on the $2.3 million Partridge Recreation Reserve pitch upgrade project, with the reserve’s grass to be converted into a FIFA-accredited synthetic surface.
The upgrade will see the existing grass on the eastern side pitch replaced with a synthetic pitch, more than doubling usage from 20 hours a week to over 40 hours a week.
The decision was announced at a council meeting on Tuesday, May 21.
The reserve is home to the Mill Park Soccer Club, which currently has more than 300 active members, and is set to not only benefit the local soccer community, but also give greater opportunity for nearby residents, community groups, and other sports to use the facilities.
City of Whittlesea Chair Administrator Lydia Wilson said the upgrade would help cater for the growing demand for sporting facilities in the municipality.
“We know that we have one of the highest participation rates for soccer in the state, and this new synthetic pitch will actively encourage even more people to get involved, including more women and girls,” she said.
“We’re proud to continue to invest in the infrastructure needed to support our community to stay active and healthy.”
The project will incorporate a range of sustainability measures, including energy-efficient LED lighting and organic infill product.
The project will also see the installation of a 25mm shock pad underlay that is estimated to divert approximately 75 tonnes of plastic waste and 70 tonnes of rubber waste from landfill.
Upgrades are expected to begin in September 2024 and finish in early 2025.