Albury City Council has bought two parcels of land in Hamilton Valley, including the site of the former Lavington Sports Club.
The purchase consolidates AlburyCity’s landholdings in this important community precinct and, in the short term, increases available event parking for the neighbouring Lavington Sports Ground and Lavington Bowling Club, which are both owned by Council.
“The recent listing of the property provided an exciting opportunity for AlburyCity to secure land to consolidate our existing landholdings and support the strong growth in activity we’ve seen at the Lavington Sports Ground,” said AlburyCity Mayor, Kylie King.
“It also paves the way for the exploration of other uses that can further enhance the precinct and liveability of this area of the city.
“The purchase of the land will support the achievement of the community’s Albury Toward 2050 vision of a nationally significant regional city, with sustainable population growth, high-quality infrastructure, industry-leading services and high levels of amenity.”
The land’s proximity to the Lavington Sports Ground and its potential to become part of future master planning for the precinct were key factors in the purchase.
Lavington Sports Ground contributes more than $10M to the visitor economy each year by hosting major carnivals and sporting events for our region, including Big Bash League cricket, NRL and AFL exhibition matches.
Its reputation as one of the best regional sporting venues in Australia continues to build momentum, as evidenced by the wide range of elite events and the many local, regional, state and national sporting carnivals and community sports across many sporting codes.
Parking will be available in the formed carpark and the grassed area along Hanna Street for the upcoming BBL game on 23 December, however AlburyCity will be restricting access to part of the site. It is intended that the entire site will be accessible as soon as possible in the New Year.
The two parcels of land acquired by AlburyCity, at 791 Centaur Road and 495 Hanna Street in Hamilton Valley, total just over four hectares.
The timing of future master planning for the precinct, including the recently acquired sites, will be considered when Council develops its next draft Four Year Delivery Program. Any future planning will be subject to community consultation throughout the process.
The purchase price remains confidential.
