New basketball courts unveiled as multimillion dollar investment in National Park continues

More than $10 million is being invested into facility upgrades at Newcastle's largest recreational reserve, with four new basketball courts the latest project to be completed at National Park.

Work to increase the number of basketball courts and continue the re-activation of the former tennis court site near the corner of National Park and Parry Streets recently wrapped up, with a free community celebration to be held at the courts on Sunday 24 April.

Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said National Park holds an important place in Newcastle's recreation and sporting landscape and the upgrades to facilities are being provided to enhance the usability of the precinct.

"National Park has long been used for a variety of sports and activities, and each weekend hundreds of players flock to the park to participate in community sport and passive recreation activities, so it's important that the facilities are upgraded to meet modern standards," Cr Nelmes said.

"City of Newcastle is committed to delivering an even better sporting experience for players and spectators alike by investing in the facilities located throughout the National Park precinct.

"Based on the popularity of the two existing basketball courts, we've now increased the offering for local basketballers, installed seating for spectators and expanded greenspace at the site for all to enjoy.

“I look forward to seeing our community come together as we officially open the additional courts next month, and until then enjoy the renewed space.”

Newcastle Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen said the addition of basketball courts, seating and greenspace are among the projects currently underway or recently completed within the National Park precinct.

"Stage one of an extensive redevelopment of the iconic and historic No.1 Sportsground is nearing completion and planning is underway for a potential second stage subject to a NSW Government funding application, which will help solidify Newcastle's position as a world-class events city by attracting elite AFL and cricket matches," Cr Clausen said.

"We're also upgrading the playing fields at No. 5 and No. 6 Sportsgrounds to improve the playing surface for local football fixtures, refurbishing the grandstand at Fearnley Dawes Athletics Track and Cooks Hill Football Club has resurfaced the field located within the Athletics Track grounds.”

Work began in December to upgrade the 30 competition netball courts at National Park as part of a project being funded by Newcastle Netball Association and delivered with support from City of Newcastle.

National Park is one of Newcastle’s largest and oldest sportsgrounds and open space reserves, covering over 20 hectares and is currently home to a range of community facilities, parklands and sportsgrounds.

To find out more about all of the projects underway to deliver a better sporting experience at National Park visit newcastle.nsw.gov.au.

The free community event at National Park basketball courts, featuring family-friendly activities, come-and-try basketball sessions, entertainment and refreshments will be held between 10am and midday on Sunday 24 April.

Projects underway or recently completed at National Park:

• Stage one of a major redevelopment of No. 1 Sportsground including re-built playing surface, new wickets, new irrigation, bleacher seating and lighting upgrade
• Playing field upgrade at No. 5 and No. 6 Sportsgrounds
• Construction of four basketball courts and seating, and creation of additional greenspace on the former tennis court site
• Grandstand refurbishment at Fearnley Dawes Athletics Track
• Centre field improvements at Fearnley Dawes Athletics Track
• Netball courts upgrade