Preliminary works have begun on the new Village Green at the Alfredton Recreation Reserve.

Appointed project contractors Turf One are setting up on site.

The $1.4 million project will see a second playing surface and change rooms installed to cater for Australian Rules football, soccer and cricket and is due for completion in time for the 2012 winter sports season.

The new village green will help cater for the growing number of residents in the area and a large number of junior teams. Drought tolerant grass and training lights will mean the new oval can be used year-round for training and match play, taking pressure off turf management requirements for the existing oval.