Sportsfield upgrade, Smith Park, Hamilton
We are delivering a multimillion-dollar upgrade of the popular Hamilton North sportsground.
As part of our Strategic Sports Plan (2020), a masterplan for Smith Park has been developed to ensure that proposed works are consistent with the long-term vision of the park and meets the needs of all user groups.
The masterplan aims to develop a staged and flexible multi-use precinct to meet the recreation and sporting needs of the surrounding community, and enhance the visitor experience for players, officials, and spectators.
The masterplan was developed in consultation with local sporting user groups and the community in 2022 and was endorsed by City of Newcastle’s Sport Infrastructure Working Party in early 2024.
The masterplan will be implemented in stages over a 10 year period, with stage one works planned to commence in June 2024.
Works to be completed
Stage one works include:
- Installation of a new irrigation system, associated water storage tanks and pump shed.
- Drainage upgrade and installation of sub soil drainage to one cricket field and two soccer fields.
- Realignment of the sports fields and synthetic cricket wickets.
Stage two of the masterplan will be delivered separately in future works programs, and will include:
- Community / facilities building.
- Upgrade of the Parkside Avenue carpark.
- Footpath connecting car park to fields and amenities.
- Upgrade and formalising of existing landscaping along Boreas Road.
- Multi-sports court and lighting.
How is it funded?
Newcastle Junior Cricket Association (NJCA) was successful in receiving a $2.5 million in grant funding under the Multi-Sport Community Facility Fund 2021/22. City of Newcastle, NJCA and the Office of Sport have entered into an agreement, with City of Newcastle delivering the works.
Next steps
Smith Park sporting fields will be closed from June 2024 until February 2025 to enable construction of drainage and irrigation upgrades, and realignment of sporting fields and synthetic cricket wickets.
Access to alternative playing fields will be arranged for winter and summer sports training and competitions.
The existing playground will remain open throughout the works.
Latest news
30 May 2024 - Improvements on the way for Smith Park
10 March 2024 - Call for tender for first stage of Smith Park upgrade
