Ardeer Reserve will get a new $1.3 million soccer pavilion, keeping up with demand for better local sporting facilities.
Brimbank council has contracted Melbcon Pty Ltd to demolish the dilapidated old pavilion and build the new one at the home ground of Westgate Football Club.
Westgate FC has contributed $150,000 towards the project, with Brimbank council making up the rest of the $1,397,419.91 tender price. Brimbank mayor John Hedditch said the project is part of a concerted push by the council to boost sporting opportunities.
“Sport and recreation are important to our community, and this project will deliver the kind of soccer facility Ardeer needs,” Cr Hedditch said.
He said the upgrade had been identified as a priority project in the council’s sports facility development strategy plan for managing and developing Brimbank’s sport and recreation spaces.
The new pavilion will include two change rooms, a social room and associated amenities, an umpires’ room and first aid room, storage and public amenities.
Westgate FC president Steve Kunesevic said it had been a long process to get the project up and running, but news of its go-ahead was hugely exciting.
“It’s a very important announcement, especially for the division we are in, and the way we want to improve as a club and attract players,” Mr Kunesevic said.
“The old rooms were pretty run down, lots of portables, showers didn’t work etc, so creating a more family friendly environment and a more welcoming place for ladies is what we want to do.
“It’s massive for the club, but also the whole community because we want to open the rooms up … so the benefits are endless.”
Westgate will play its 2017 season elsewhere as construction takes place, but will still train at Ardeer Reserve. Construction is due to start in February, and end by September/October.
