The upgrade will increase the capacity of the popular precinct for sports and recreation.

Port Macquarie MP Leslie Williams announced almost $3.2 million on October 15 through the state government’s Regional Sports Infrastructure Fund to transform the sporting precinct.

Port Macquarie-Hastings Council will contribute $800,000 to the project.

Key features include improvements to the fields, particularly to the premier field, two new outdoor basketball courts, a 1.8 kilometre perimeter walking track, upgraded lighting, new playground, off-leash dog park, upgrade to Woods Street to formalise access and parking, and upgraded amenities.

Mrs Williams, at the funding announcement, said this was a really exciting day for our community and user groups to imagine Stuart Park was really going to be a state of the art facility.

Mrs Williams said the significant upgrade to the sports field would convert the site into a regionally significant venue able to host state and national events.

“Improved infrastructure will enable local junior talent to stay local when progressing through sporting pathways,” she said.

“We all know how popular and healthy sport is so this is a huge win for local competitors of all ages and all levels of ability.”

The Regional Sports Infrastructure Fund improves the quality and quantity of sport participation in regional communities and invests in new and existing venues.

Mayor Peta Pinson said it was an exciting day for sport in our region, especially the Stuart Park user groups.

“Nothing is going to dampen the spirits of our sporting community even with the rain,” she said at the funding announcement.

Cr Pinson said the upgrade would make a huge difference to our community, our sporting community, and recreational users of Stuart Park.

Jane Keegan from Port Macquarie Junior Sharks welcomed the upgrade plan which she said seemed to accommodate all the user groups and encourage more user groups.

Gordon Witherspoon from Port Macquarie Junior Sharks believes the upgrade will increase access for all sports with the knowledge it is a safe environment for parents to bring their kids to, as well as a space for adults to use.

The council will have further discussions with the state government and the facility user groups in finalising project milestones.

The upgrade will be delivered in stages.

Detailed design for some elements will also be finalised in consultation with the user groups.

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