Media response - Paul Murray Recreation Centre
Published on 09 August 2023
Response to The Advertiser.
- If possible, can I get a few lines from the council about the project? What will the upgrade mean? Why is it important to retain and maintain an asset such as this for the community?
Comments attributed to Mayor Moira Were
The Paul Murray Recreation Centre upgrade is a sign of a club, families and all levels of government working together.
The improvements on this asset will be for southern gymnasts, and those travelling here to compete, and for those who’ll use the new kinder gym and 50s Plus Activity Group.
The premier multi-generational facility will meet booming participation in gymnastics in the south while strengthening the pathways for young athletes to realise their dreams.
It’s incredibly important for us to maintain and invest in assets such as this as they facilitate stronger community connections through increased social inclusion, and improved lifelong physical and mental wellbeing. We’re grateful to the state and federal governments for their funding towards the upgrade.
ENDS
PROJECT INFORMATION
Funding of the $5.454 million project comprises all levels of government. The state government’s Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing has committed $3 million, while the federal government has committed $443,000 from the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure program and $1 million from the Investing in our Communities program, in addition to City of Onkaparinga’s $1.011 million funding contribution.
The project deliverables include:
- extending the existing centre from 1140sqm to approximately 2000sqm to provide a high quality, safe and accessible public facility for gymnastics to meet growing participation needs across Southern Adelaide.
- extending the gymnastics main hall from 700sqm to approximately 1110sqm.
- constructing a new larger multi-purpose community room to satisfy aerobics gymnastics specifications and cater for the 50s Plus Activity Group.
- constructing a new mezzanine level spectator viewing area
- constructing a new contemporary kinder gym to cater for increased participation and storage requirements
- upgrading the centre facilities including kitchen, foyer, reception and office areas to provide broader community benefit and improved operational functionality
- improving the centre toilet and shower facilities including accessibility for all
- upgrading external entry/exit ramps and stairs to Australian Building Code to improve equitable access
- extending the car parking area to add new spaces and to increase user safety.