Upgrade to make a Class II facility

THERE are plans for the installation of white picket fences around the ovals, and for additional landscaping and tree planting, all of which will help preserve the character of the venue and grow its sporting use, Cairns Mayor Bob Manning said.

The upgraded lighting will ensure compliance as a Class II facility as specified by the Queensland Cricket Infrastructure Strategy. The $2.27m upgrade (stage 1a) will involve four new light towers, about 41m high, to provide 500 lux lighting for the infield and 300 lux to the outfield (required output for a Class II facility). As part of the works, the existing lighting will be removed. It is hoped these lights will be ready to go for the upcoming cricket season.

The council has received planning approvals for stage 1b of the upgrade, which includes:

significant civil works to increase accessibility to the venue (vehicle and pedestrian), carparking (100 off-street parks) and an entrance plaza, and

new training nets.

Work is expected to start in mid-2021.

The council was successful in securing $1m in grant funding from the State Government, through the Department of Public Works’ Active Community Infrastructure program, to contribute to the costs of stage 1.

In addition to the funding and construction, the council has also delivered:

Initial planning strategy ($50,000), and

Acquisition costs for new land off Warner

Street to accommodate carparking requirements ($800,000).