The redevelopment of No2 Sportsground is complete and The City of Newcastle will officially open the $7.25 million facility on Sunday 20 May.

Newcastle Lord Mayor JOHN TATE says community members are invited to join in the celebrations, with a great line-up of entertainment planned to mark the special occasion.

“Kicking off at 11am, the event will feature the Hunter School of Performing Arts marching band, a variety of street performers, demonstration games by local junior sporting teams and a rugby union skills course.”

“In addition, a number of sporting celebrities from the Wallabies, Knights and Jets will be in attendance, giving fans the opportunity to get photos and autographs.”

“A jumping castle will also be on site for the younger children and Ronald McDonald House will provide a barbecue service. NBN’s Mitch Hughes will be MC for the day.”

Cr Tate says the major revamp of the sportsground will be of great benefit to the whole community.

“As well as a venue for major sporting events, it will also be able to host other forms of entertainment such as open-air theatre, outdoor cinema, youth concerts, Christmas carols and outdoor community celebrations.”

“Capable of accommodating up to 5,000 people, it really is a top-class facility for the local residents and wider region to enjoy.”

Improvements at the complex include the creation of a natural amphitheatre to enhance viewing, the installation of a new, quality ground surface, new concourse seating and new public amenities.

In addition, the playing field has been reconfigured from an oval shape to a rectangular field, a new grandstand has been built, 265 new car parking spaces have been created and new light poles and security fencing have been fitted.

The federal government has contributed $2 million towards the project. Acknowledgement also goes to Newcastle Hunter Rugby Union for its funding contribution and volunteer support.