Ms SPENCE (Yuroke) — (12 911) My constituency question is to the Minister for Local Government. What is the time line for the construction of the new Aston Fields sporting precinct in Yuroke, which is being supported with a $2 million investment from the Andrews Labor government’s Growing Suburbs Fund?
This precinct, when completed, will give local residents a cricket oval, a massive playground, a sports pavilion, and three soccer pitches, which will no doubt be a wonderful new home for the Craigieburn City Football Club. I know the Craigieburn City Football Club would be particularly grateful for advice on a time line for the installation of lighting on the main field, and what measures are being put in place to ensure there is adequate change room and canteen space for the next season commencing in January. Like many in my community, I cannot wait for this precinct to open, and I look forward to an update from the minister.

Response:

I thank the Member for Yuroke for her question, and for her strong advocacy for both this project and for the Growing Suburbs Fund.

Construction for the Aston Recreation Reserve Development is proposed to commence on 13 November 2017 and be completed by 7 September 2018. My Department is continuing to work with Hume City Council to identify efficiencies and ensure the timely delivery of this critical local infrastructure project.

This project will deliver a much-needed multi-purpose community and sporting facility to Craigieburn residents, including cricket practice facilities, a playground, lighting and landscaping. This investment by the Victorian Government will improve opportunities for recreation and provide valuable new community meeting spaces for the growing and diverse Craigieburn population.

This project is one example of how the Victorian Government’s $150 million Growing Suburbs Fund is supporting interface councils to respond to the pressures of population growth by bringing forward local infrastructure projects that make a meaningful difference to the day-to-day lives of outer suburban communities.

I look forward to the Member’s continued support in ensuring the benefits of the Growing Suburbs Fund are being realised in her electorate.

HON NATALIE HUTCHINS MP
Minister for Local Government