Sport at the northern end of Redlands Coast has received a boost with Redland City Council this week endorsing a precinct-wide master plan for the popular William Taylor Memorial Sports Field in Thorneside.
Redland City Mayor Jos Mitchell said the master plan included a multi-stage strategy for upgrading a range of sport, recreation and community facilities within the precinct.
“The master plan provides the venue’s tenant clubs, the broader community and other key stakeholders with clarity on how improvements are proposed to be delivered across the site in future years,” the Mayor said.
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“The development of the master plan for this important precinct has been driven by multiple factors, including an increase in sport participation – particularly among women – a rise in demand for space to accommodate emerging sports such as pickleball, and a need to replace ageing assets.
“Through this master plan, Council aims to deliver a modern, high-quality venue that meets the needs and aspirations of all site users – including the tenant clubs and their players.
“This is the first time Council has undertaken precinct-level master planning for an existing sporting facility within the city, setting a new benchmark for how the organisation collaborates with the community, other levels of government and local clubs to deliver a shared long-term vision.”
Adopting the master plan will also unlock additional opportunities for Council and sports clubs to apply for external funding, which can be used to support future proposed development stages.
Upgrades have already commenced at the site, with Council recently installing modern LED lighting on the main football field to bring the infrastructure in line with competition standards and improve energy efficiency.
Stages 2a and 2b of the master plan are being delivered as part of the South East Queensland (SEQ) Liveability Fund, a commitment under the SEQ City Deal, a partnership between the Australian Government, Queensland Government and Council of Mayors (SEQ). This includes upgrades to the recreation zone, community amenities and the precinct car park.
These stages are due for completion by June 2027 and will include a new district-level skate park, BMX track, pétanque arena, dog off-leash area, multi-court and rebound activity wall, relocated club cricket nets, and enhancements to pedestrian connectivity.
The Australian and Queensland Governments are jointly contributing $5.71 million in funding to the William Taylor Memorial master plan.
Stage 3 works will focus on improvements to the sports zone – including fields, lighting and courts – while a new shared clubhouse, toilets, change rooms and an upgraded playground and outdoor fitness area are proposed to be delivered during stage 4.
The master plan was developed in consultation with various stakeholders and the community prior to being adopted at this week’s General Meeting of Council.
Division 10 Councillor Paul Bishop said Council would continue to undertake targeted consultation with key stakeholders throughout future planning and design stages of the project.
“It is important that upgrades across the precinct deliver on a collective vision that continues to provide our community with a truly multifunctional and accessible space,” Cr Bishop said.
“At my request in support of local community values, Council has agreed to form a precinct stakeholder and tenant working group to help inform future stages of the master plan.
“I invite members of the public to have their say during upcoming targeted consultation for the skatepark and BMX track, which will be a great addition for our area.
“Feedback provided during this engagement phase, which is set to take place in November, will be used to review the proposed design elements of both facilities.”
The William Taylor Memorial Sports Field Master Plan is available to view online at yoursay.redland.qld.gov.au/william-taylor-upgrade.
