Mill Park is gaining a FIFA-accredited synthetic surface, with the upgrade of Partridge Recreation Reserve’s grass pitch.
Partridge Recreation Reserve is home to the Mill Park Soccer Club, which has more than 300 active members.
Whittlesea council awarded a contract for the project in its May 21 council meeting.
The project will see the existing grass playing surface on the eastern pitch replaced with a synthetic pitch, doubling usage from 20 hours a week to more than 40 hours a week. This will benefit not only the soccer community, but also give greater opportunity for nearby residents, community groups and other sports to use the facilities.
Council chair administrator Lydia Wilson said the upgrade will help to ensure the influx of grassroots participation is catered for.
“We know that we have one of the highest participation rates for soccer in the state, and this new synthetic pitch will actively encourage even more people to get involved, including more women and girls,” she said.
“We’re proud to continue to invest in the infrastructure needed to support our community to stay active and healthy.”
The project will feature energy-efficient LED lighting, as well as being councils’ first synthetic pitch with an organic infill product, and the installation of a 25mm thick rubber shockpad underlay that is estimated to divert approximately 75 tonnes of plastic waste and 70 tonnes of rubber waste from landfill, all in an effort to increase environmental sustainability.
The upgrades are expected to be completed early next year.
