DA lodged for new $25m basketball and sports stadium


22nd June 2020
Here's our first look at designs for the new $25m basketball stadium planned for Hillsborough. You'd remember that we were successful in getting a financial

Here's our first look at designs for the new $25m basketball stadium planned for Hillsborough.

You'd remember that we were successful in getting a financial commitment for the stadium from the Government before last year's election, and now a development application has been lodged with Lake council.

It's a really exciting project and a massive boost for local sport.

It will be able to accommodate 4000 spectators and will host other sports including volleyball and wheelchair sports, as well as community events.

The plans will be opened to public comment when they go on public exhibition shortly.

Here's what the Newcastle Herald reported about the latest developments:

 

Newcastle Basketball general manager Neil Goffet said the facility was "urgently required" as the existing stadium at Broadmeadow no longer accommodated all of the association's activities.

"Registration numbers have almost doubled in the last few years and catering for that growth is becoming increasingly difficult," he said.

"The NSW government are to be commended for making such a significant investment in this region and we are extremely grateful for their commitment to this project.

"Our project managers have been working very hard behind the scenes and we can't wait to start construction later in the year."

The NSW government pledged $25 million to the facility ahead of last year's election. It then allocated $13.4 million in this year's budget for the project.

Acting Sports Minister Sport Geoff Lee said the Hillsborough stadium would be a sports and entertainment hub, catering not only to basketball but volleyball, wheelchair sports and a host of other community, sporting and cultural activities.

"The new stadium will take basketball in the Hunter to a new level and it will have the capability to host national and state tournaments each year," he said.

"A new generation of fans will be inspired while watching the superstars in action in this world-class facility.

"This is a significant milestone for basketball and indoor sports in general," Mayor Kay Fraser said.

"It is a wonderful project for our city and without doubt, it will significantly contribute to creating a more active, engaged and healthy community.

"There are a few steps to go before it reaches approval stage, but I'm very excited by the thought of a state-of-the-art basketball centre in the heart of Lake Macquarie."

Newcastle Basketball hopes to have the stadium built and open by late 2021.

<< Previous | Next >>