The last stage of the revitalisation of Goodwood Oval nears. A revitalisation that physically commenced 5 years ago with the construction of new Clubrooms 5 years ago.

In my first year on Council, we developed a masterplan for the Oval Precinct. It took 5 years to see it commence with the new clubroom replacing the old 1960’s grandstand. The clubroom has been a hugh success, transforming not just the amenity of the area but how the precinct is used.

With the benefit of learnings from the recent restructuring of the Unley Oval playing surface it is time for us to do the same out here in the west. At Goodwood Oval.

This is a non-negotiable project. A project that simply must happen. Our ground staff struggle to keep Goodwood Oval in good condition. I believe most people recognise this fact. The drainage of the oval is poor, like Unley Oval used to be prior to the restructuring of that oval. Indeed, Goodwood Oval struggles more than Unley Oval ever did.

The answer. To not just resurface the oval but restructure it and address those drainage issues.

This is a significant exercise. One that will require fencing off from use while it is under construction. Likely to be a 6-month exercise.

This prompts us to consider looking at what other opportunities may exist to further enhance and develop the precinct.

We are looking for your feedback before taking the next steps and have prepared a brief to facilitate this. I expect we will seek your input in a couple of weeks. Watch this space.

Many of you will be aware that Tennis SA and the Goodwood Cricket Club have both recognised this opportunity and have expressed desires to have their needs addressed.

Goodwood Oval Hydrovac

We have already responded to Tennis SA agreeing in principle to them extending their courts south, into the previous hockey field. This is conditional, however. Conditional absolutely on Tennis SA providing a significant contribution of funding.

Conditional likewise on any extension of the courts not interfering with the significant tree in the north-west corner of the hockey field. Tennis SA, in response, have an arborist examining the tree. As part of that investigation, they have conducted a hydrovac examination of the root structure.

The Goodwood Cricket Club are seeking to improve the safety surrounding the use of practice wickets at the south end of the oval. There are significant safety concerns with the current practice pitches. They do need addressing. How best to do this while ensuring the needs of others are also enhanced need to be assessed.

They recently presented their situation to Council identifying several options. Options that include relocating to the hockey field or extending what they have now behind the goals at the southern end but in an east-west configuration.

Council has not responded to the cricket club’s submission. The Club, I believe, will conduct their own consultation to the public. Repeating what they have put in front of Council.

We are keen to hear your thoughts on the last stage of the revitalisation of Goodwood Oval. That opportunity should commence in 2 weeks. You will have 3 weeks to provide that feedback.

Whether it is looking at improving dog walking which is one of the main uses of the precinct. Maybe child playground improvements or relocation. Perhaps youth activities.

Or perhaps creating new green space by removing the carpark. A chance for extra tree planting, a community garden. Likwise re-establishing the RSL memorial.