Port Augusta Central Oval redevelopment a step closer

Port Augusta residents are a step closer to enjoying a new, state-of-the-art sporting, recreation and entertainment precinct with last week's signing of construction contracts for the Central Oval Redevelopment.

South Australian Recreation and Sport Minister Leon Bignell explained that Port Augusta City Council signed the contracts with builder Badge Constructions for the $16 million project which will transform central Port Augusta.

Minister Bignell stated "the State Government recognises the importance of this great project to the people of Port Augusta and that is why we helped kick start it back in 2010 with a commitment of $5 million.

"This truly transformative redevelopment will help to revitalise central Port Augusta and provide its residents with a new sports and entertainment precinct.

"It is one of the biggest developments undertaken in Port Augusta in many years and it will provide a much needed boost to the local economy over the construction phase."

The project is jointly funded by the South Australian Government ($5 million), the Federal Government ($5 million) and Port Augusta City Council ($6 million).

Included in the plans are an AFL standard football oval, changerooms, netball courts, multi-use stadium, function area for up to 600 patrons, indoor multi-purpose courts and a Café.

Minister Bignell added "Port Augusta locals are really excited about netball and football coming back together at the one location for the first time in over 30 years.

"The city has also lacked a good civic centre for many years and the Council and the community will be able to use this new facility for functions that are normally held in town halls and bigger venues.

To view an artists impression of the Port Augusta Oval Redevelopment visit www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=z-FzFzuRgwY