Hornsby Shire Council has upgraded a local sporting ground, including the implementation of entirely synthetic grass.
The synthetic field at Pennant Hills Park was put through its paces for the first time last month.
Junior players from Pennant Hills Football Club were clearly excited as they stepped onto the new field, without having to worry about the rain clouds that were gathering.
“We’re very excited to have a facility that’s available to all these children consistently,” Pennant Hills minis coordinator Wendy Lockley said.
“Previously we’ve had a lot of trouble with the ground being unavailable because it was inoperable, dangerous or just a mud pie.”
Hornsby Shire Mayor Steve Russell was there to see the players take to the field and he was equally pleased.
“It’s always great to see an investment like this come to fruition, particularly when it comes to sporting fields.
“One of Council’s major roles is to ensure there are enough sporting fields for our young athletes.
“We’ve been working hard to streamline Council’s operations and increase the budget bottom line exactly so we can deliver these type of projects.”
The synthetic grass is 63 millimetres in length, meaning it isn’t abrasive, and it includes a rubber granule infill so it is soft impact and performs like natural turf.
New floodlights have also been installed at a standard that will allow competition games to be played at night.
The total cost of the synthetic field, perimeter fencing and new floodlighting is $1.3 million.
Other improvements to the park include a footpath for pedestrian safety, realignment of the road and sealing of the carpark.
“We’re very grateful to Council for this work,” Ms Lockley said.
“It doesn’t just benefit our teams, but also a number of local schools who don’t have playing fields and are now able to come here regardless of the weather or time of year.”
