The Liberals have “delighted” Tasmanian footballers with a $350,000 commitment towards a proposed ‘Home of Football’, as the sport continues to surge in popularity, if re-elected.
The funding would go towards a feasibility study and early design work for a new facility at Wentworth Park on Hobart’s eastern shore.
Concept plans include six full-sized soccer pitches, four five-a-side pitches for all levels of community and elite football, as well as changerooms and training facilities.
“This is thrilling news for the football community,” Football Tasmania president Bob Gordon said.
“Football is the most popular team sport for young Tasmanians, including nearly 35% in the 9-11 age group and we desperately need more facilities to cater to this growing demand.”
Premier Jeremy Rockliff, who just yesterday committed $12.5 million to a basketball complex across the River Derwent, said there are now more than 31,000 footballers across the state.
“We know that growth is currently outpacing pitches and this grassroots investment will ensure that not only do we meet current demand, but we future-proof soccer facilities in Tasmania for years to come,” he said.
“More and more we are seeing our young people put down their phones and iPads and pick up a ball, keeping active and healthy while creating social networks that will carry them through life.”
If re-elected, the Liberals say they will work with Clarence City Council and the local community to move the project forward.
However, when the ‘Home of Football’ concept first emerged last year, the council was quick to distance itself from the idea.
The council at the time stated the plans were “purely conceptual” and “in no way endorsed”.
“They have not conducted consultation with our community and no decision, formal or informal, has been made,” the council said.
