ANZ Stadium won't be rising out of the ground at Wauchope, but the wheels are in motion for the construction of the new Hastings sporting fields.
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The precinct, which will be located off the Oxley Highway and will be accessible off Stoney Creek Road, has received funding for work to start on phase one of the project.
It is hoped within the next five years the facility will be available to use for a variety of sporting groups around the region.
A Port Macquarie-Hastings Council spokesperson said preliminary construction works are expected to start by the end of the year.
"Two million dollars has been allocated out of the 2021 operational plan to commence construction, but a large portion of that is preliminary works in regards to accessing the site and underground work," the spokesperson said.
The final master plan is currently being shared with residents and the community over the next week through a number of Zoom meetings while a live Q and A will be held on July 15 via Facebook.
"That's where the community can tune in and ask questions of the project management team," the spokesperson said.
The construction of the facility will be done in several phases to align with potential funding allocations that may be available.
"At this time it's only funded for $2 million for the coming year, so we'll be seeking other funding sources including through the state and federal government."
Meanwhile, Football Mid North Coast's dream project at Sovereign Hills is gaining momentum with detailed design work starting.
FMNC chairman Mike Parsons said Port Macquarie-Hastings Council had allocated $600,000 to the design process which is currently ongoing.
"We are currently in talks with council and state and federal government representatives," Mr Parsons said.
"During those engagements we have received incredibly positive support.
"That is in light of fast-tracking the Sovereign Hills development with a view to it being ready to host a team for training and acclimatisation purposes leading into the 2023 Women's World Cup.
"We should have some news as negotiations unfold in the not-too-distant future."
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