A new cricket pitch and cricket nets have been prioritised for Centennial Park in Te Kūiti.

Council was successful in obtaining 50% of the funds needed to install a new cricket pitch at the park, through Northern Districts Cricket Association’s Regional Facilities Fund.

A grant of $8,650 has been confirmed to assist with costs for the artificial cricket wicket, with the remaining cost being funded through Council.

Further funding of up $70,000 is also being sought for the installation of new cricket nets.

The project is part of a concept plan which outlines future potential development opportunities for Centennial Park.

There are currently no adequate facilities in the district to accommodate the local cricket community.

Approved by Council earlier this year, the Centennial Park Concept Plan will be used to prioritise future works, with staff looking for funding opportunities to ensure minimal impact to ratepayers.

Priorities of work were agreed by Council in September, with activation of the Oval and North Field being the first priority. This includes installation of football and rugby goals and pads, an artificial cricket wicket and cricket nets.

Council sought community feedback late last year and earlier this year on the concept plan, and the responses were used to influence its development.

Feedback included carpark marking, a cricket pitch and training nets, picnic tables, a new playground and outdoor gym, improved entranceways and heritage gateways, visual upgrades to buildings and a new bike pump track.

Further input was also sought by an established working group comprising key stakeholders and community members.

Chief Executive Ben Smit says projects within the plan will also be prioritised based on funding availability.

“We appreciate those who took the time to have their say. We won’t be able to implement all of the ideas but will work through what can be done in the future, and what the priority needs are for now.”

“Elected members indicated that our first focus should be on preparing the fields so that multiple sports can be played. This is a great idea, and we are grateful for the funding support we have received.”

The concept plan was paid for by Central Government’s Three Waters ‘Better Off’ fund.

The initial premise of the fund was to be spent on community focused projects that could enhance our communities.