Sunshine Lloyd Reserve to sport a new look

The Lloyd Reserve in Sunshine will get an $186,000 upgrade, with state government funding footing half the bill for work on the soccer ground.

Brimbank council received $93,000 from the state government’s Community Facility Funding Program for work on the Lurg Avenue reserve, during which two pavilions will be demolished to make way for a new multi-purpose pavilion. As well, two unsafe tennis courts will be reconstructed and light towers will be installed for three sports fields.

The remainder of the lighting will be upgraded to competition standard.

North Sunshine Eagles Soccer Club is the only Brimbank organisation using the ground, for its training and matches.

Brimbank community well-being director Neil Whiteside said the funding would foster the growth and development of the club’s teams.

“The ground will also be available for local school groups and community groups where possible,” he said.

The work is tipped to begin after June next year and be completed by June, 2016.

This was the only funding application submitted by Brimbank council for the 2014-15 funding round.

Earlier this year, the Keilor basketball netball stadium was given a grant under the funding program. Lighting projects at Selwyn Park and Churchill Reserve received funding last year.

Western Metropolitan MP Bernie Finn said sport and recreation clubs and venues were a vital part of the west’s social fabric.

“The state government is delighted to invest in sports facilities that bring even more great benefits to the community,” he said.