Nillumbik Shire Council today welcomed the Victorian Government’s announcement that if re-elected it would commit $8 million toward the next stage of the Diamond Valley Sports and Fitness Centre redevelopment.
The funding will enable the construction of three additional indoor multi-sports courts, change room and office upgrades, along with other improvements.
The redevelopment of the Centre is one of a number of priority issues identified by Council in its State Election Advocacy Statement sent to political parties last month.
Mayor Peter Clarke said the announcement was an important next step toward realising Council’s long-term vision for the facility.
“This funding will enable Council to edge further toward realising its vision for the complete revamp of this much loved and hugely popular facility.
“This is a major regional community asset which serves the growing needs of the broader north-east region and it’s critical therefore that it be constructed and fitted out accordingly.
“A high proportion of those who use the facility are not residents of Nillumbik Shire. I would encourage the State Opposition to dedicate a portion of its Grassroots Sports Revival Fund, announced last week, to this particular project to reflect its regional importance.
“Similarly I would urge the Greens to commit funding toward the redevelopment of this facility,” Clarke said.
Blue Lake Ward Councillor, Grant Brooker said the commitment delivered a boost to the many individuals, sporting teams and organisations that used the Centre.
“This funding commitment will allow for some critical upgrades to a facility that has served the community so well for over 40 years but which is now desperately in need of redevelopment.
“The Diamond Valley Sports and Fitness Centre attracts nearly half a million annual visits and demand is growing. The basketball courts for example, are operating at capacity with would-be players placed on waiting lists and some games being rescheduled to other venues,” Brooker said.
Chair of Social Infrastructure Councillor Bruce Ranken also welcomed the announcement.
“The Diamond Valley Sports and Fitness Centre is a vital piece of community infrastructure and in urgent need of major upgrade. This commitment is therefore most welcome,” Ranken said.
The Diamond Valley Sports and Fitness Centre offers a wide range of activities, including basketball, badminton, volleyball, table tennis, squash and indoor soccer.
It is also open to school and community use and offers fitness programs.
