Port Kembla’s King George V Oval offers something for everyone.
It’s a sporting hub for cricketers, soccer players and basketballers. It’s a greenspace with a dedicated off-leash dog area and Bushcare site. It has a terrific playground, and the view from the top of the hill along the coastline can’t be beaten.
In recent years, there has been significant investment in the Oval and Wollongong City Council is seeking community feedback on the next phase in the future of King George V Oval. We’re preparing a Master Plan for the site and want to know what our community think of the oval precinct.
“A Master Plan is an important document as it essentially sets out how an area will be used in the future. They’re exciting to develop and it’s always great to hear from those who use the area, live in the area and know it well,” Wollongong City Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM said.
“We know this area is well-used by a range of people and community groups for very different reasons. We need to strike a balance between those uses and I encourage everyone to come forward and to share their thoughts and dreams for this gem of Port Kembla.”
King George V Oval, at the corner of Military Road and Cowper Streets and opposite Port Kembla Beach, has benefitted from funding through the Port Kembla Community Investment Fund for new sports lighting, upgraded sporting infrastructure, installation of grandstand seating and a shade sail for the playground.
Three years ago we asked for community feedback on the Port Kembla 2505 Revitalisation Plan 2018-2043 and the end result was a vision for the Oval. The vision; “A vibrant and active recreation area, balancing a youth focus with organised sport facilities, catering to people of all ages.”
This Master Plan will build on that vision and looks at how we can improve the area for recreational activities, sporting pursuits and as a green space for the local community and visitors. A Master Plan can also be used to support future funding applications and opportunities.
“The Master Plan will guide the future use of the site and this community engagement opportunity provides everyone with the chance to get involved in guiding how this popular and picturesque area will be used in years to come,” Cr Bradbery said.
“We know the Port Kembla area has a strong Aboriginal cultural heritage and we will be inviting Traditional Custodian groups and Aboriginal community members to share their ideas for the space and we’re talking with them about the future of the site. In addition, we’re keen for feedback from the whole community, that way we’re able to balance the needs and wishes of all of those who use the area.”
Community members can share their ideas about King George V Oval – how they use it and how we can improve it – by visiting between Tuesday 13 October and Monday 2 November 2020. The website has a videos, maps and details of information sessions where people will need to book-in to attend. There’s also an online feedback form and interactive map where people can share their ideas.
