City of Newcastle unveils vision for Waratah Park

A draft plan to maximise year-round use of the sporting fields at Waratah Park and enhance its accessibility, amenities and recreation opportunities has been developed to guide future upgrades.

City of Newcastle has worked with sporting groups and key stakeholders on the 10-year plan, which sets out a vision for the historic park and recreational precinct to meet the community's needs.

City of Newcastle's Sports Infrastructure Working Party Chair Peta Winney-Baartz discusses the draft Masterplan with sports club representatives at Waratah Park.

It builds on recent improvements to the site, including the installation of cricket sight screens and upgraded changerooms at Waratah Oval, and the replacement of the existing playground with new equipment at Waratah Park. An upgrade of the cricket nets is also underway.

Councillor Peta Winney-Baartz, Chair of City of Newcastle's Sports Infrastructure Working Party, said the masterplan would enhance the usage and accessibility of the site.

"City of Newcastle is committed to upgrading sporting facilities across the community for the benefit of all as part of our Strategic Sports Plan 2020," Cr Winney-Baartz said.

"During the past 12 months, we have sought extensive feedback from key user groups including sporting groups and the nearby Callaghan College, to inform the development of the draft masterplan for Waratah Park.

"It includes provision for improved and inclusive amenities, leverages opportunities for passive and active recreation whilst retaining the heritage significance of the park.

"We look forward to sharing this plan with the broader community to seek additional feedback and support for its long-term vision."

The draft masterplan will guide the staged provision of infrastructure to meet the recreation and sporting needs of the community.

This includes improving the field layout and upgrading the floodlights, irrigation and drainage to maximise the year-round use of the park, with the provision of five grounds for rugby union or league, three turf and one synthetic cricket wicket, and eight Oztag fields.

Upgraded amenities and a formalised car park with accessible parking spaces will ensure the precinct is more inclusive, while informal seating, a three metre wide shared pathway around the park, fitness stations and multi-sport court are also proposed.

Members of the community are invited to find out more and have their say online via City of Newcastle's website by 27 September.