Synthetic, all-purpose sports grounds may be the answer after an unusually wet winter disrupted the sports season, according to Penrith Junior Rugby League Manager, Yvonne Purtell.
“I honestly believe that all-purpose grounds are the way of the future. A number of grounds have been closed this season due to the wet weather but an all-purpose ground would allow Council to maximise ground usage,” she said.
“It is something that needs to be researched, but the grounds are being used overseas very successfully and would certainly reduce the downtime that is needed with grass grounds so they can recover.”
North Ward Councillor Ross Fowler has announced that if elected at the September 8 Local Government Election, his independent team will deliver more sports fields, all weather surfaces and better planning for sports management.
“The city of Penrith is growing and its sporting facilities must be planned to meet the growing needs of the community,” Mr Fowler said.
“We have held preliminary discussions with Yvonne Purtell, Penrith Junior Rugby League Manager, and John Churchward, Nepean District Soccer Association President, to find out exactly what they believe is needed.
“Synthetic playing surfaces is one idea which will assist codes during the wetter months, other Councils are already embracing the technology.”
A number of sports would benefit from more playing fields and the introduction of all weather playing surfaces would go a long way to easing the burden on existing resources and stop the total cancellation of competition due to rain.
“Having coached junior teams for Jamisontown and Glenmore Park, there is no joy in telling a team of under 6’s they can’t play due to the fields being closed because of wet weather,” said South Ward candidate, Bernard Bratusa.
“The kids just want to have fun and shouldn’t be deprived. We owe it to them to find a solution.”
Tricia Hitchen, East Ward candidate, said that there will be substantial growth in demand for sporting facilities in Claremont Meadows, Cranebrook and Glenmore Park in coming years that will require planning now.
