MOUNT Gambier’s Vansittart Park grandstand will receive a much-needed upgrade next financial year in a bid to improve safety and structural integrity.
City Council has allocated $150,000 in its 2019/20 draft budget to replace ageing timber at the grandstand, which will provide a new seating surface while also ensuring the upper level is water-tight.
The proposed grandstand upgrade follows consultation between council and North Gambier Football Netball Club representatives, with the oval tenant revealing water leaks had damaged the changerooms below.
“With the age of the building it is not surprising that is it in need of repair,” North Gambier club committee member Peter Allen said.
“It is an iconic building of Vansittart Park.
“We think it is an important community facility that needs to be preserved.”
Council has vowed to ensure the flooring is watertight to improve safety and negate any future damage.
“We will also paint the exterior and repair works to the grandstand because the timber work has reached the end of its life,” council infrastructure general manager Nick Serle said.
“Council also needs to stay true to the heritage component also.”
The foundation stone for the grandstand was laid in 1927, with the central site since hosting high-profile sporting and community events, as well as a visit from Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh.
While North Gambier has long operated from the prominent sporting site, it remains a council-owned and managed property, with staff working alongside the sporting club.
“As a club we are really grateful for the work that is about to be done,” Mr Allen said.
“Going forward it will also be beneficial for the New Year’s Eve and other future events.”
The project forms part of council’s planned infrastructure works next financial year.
