Two contracts have been awarded for the construction of a new baseball diamond and lighting at Prince of Wales Park.

A $375,000 tender has been awarded to Turf One Pty Ltd for the design and construction of a AAA standard baseball diamond. The project includes a synthetic infield, warm season grass outfield and a new irrigation system (including tanks).

Work will commence late February and is expected to finish early April. The new turf will require between six and 12 weeks to become established.

A $295,000 tender for the associated sports lighting has been awarded to local electrical contractor company TJ Coutts.  The AAA standard match lights will be installed late February, with work expected to be complete in April.

City of Ballarat Portfolio Councillor for People and Communities Mark Harris said the city’s major sports precincts continued to be a priority for Council.

“The new facilities will allow our local baseball and softball clubs to attract new players and generate growing interest in both sports. The installation of sports lighting at the facility will also provide flexibility by allowing the clubs to train at night.

“The redevelopment will also provide an opportunity for the Prince of Wales Park sports precinct to host a range of national, state and local competition events in the future.”

Other works planned for Prince of Wales Park include construction of a granitic path network, design and construction of additional car parking and bike racks at the Ballarat Aquatic Centre.

Turf One Pty Ltd recently constructed the synthetic pitch at the Ballarat Regional Football (Soccer) Facility.