Council’s bright idea for grassroots sports

GOLD Coast City Council is determined to shine a light on community sports fields.

Lighting upgrades for sports facilities across the city have been listed as a priority in the 2018-19 city budget, to be brought down on June 21.

The council has committed $1 million for the project.

Mayor Tom Tate said the plan meant kids and their parents would be able to get outdoors and play for longer.

“We have seen that where adequate lighting has been installed in the past, the use of the sports field increases significantly,” Cr Tate said.

“It keeps kids and adults active and involved in healthy family pursuits.

“The city is responsible for ensuring existing lighting meets the necessary standards. We are also focused on addressing our growth needs within the city, particularly in the north.’’

Residents living near sports fields need not worry because tightly focused LED lights mean the impact on the neighbourhood was reduced, he said.