LIBERAL candidate for Bicton Matt Taylor has secured a $150,000 funding pledge for a feasibility study into the future redevelopment of East Fremantle Oval.
The money is contingent on the Liberal Government being re-elected and comes as the East Fremantle Sharks consider moving its league games and administration to Fremantle Oval.
Mr Taylor said the colts, reserves, women’s league and training would remain at East Fremantle Oval.
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READ NOW“It is my strong desire for the club’s administration to continue at East Fremantle Oval so the club’s spiritual home remains at Shark Park for generations to come,” he said.
“I have been talking to the East Fremantle Football Club and the community about their ideas for a long time and everyone wants to ensure we take full advantage of the opportunities down here.
“With funding for a feasibility study, the club and community can explore just what can be done; whether that’s redeveloping it as a training base, building a community hub or even a joint recreational-residential development like what has happened at Claremont Oval.”
Minister for Planning Donna Faragher said community sport was an important part of Australian life.
“Sporting clubs bring people together, create community ties, promote healthy, active lifestyles and help kids learn important values such as teamwork and sportsmanship,” she said.
“Maintaining elements of that as clubs change and the community grows around them keeps that club spirit alive and part of future generations.”
Mr Taylor previously indicated he plans to lobby his party for $15 million to both replace the ageing football stadium and provide new and improved multi-purpose facilities for use by other sporting and community groups.
If elected, WA Labor has committed $75,000 to facilitate community consultation to determine the future of the East Fremantle Oval site.