ORANGE is set to take another huge step towards developing a state-of-the-art rectangular sporting complex.
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On Tuesday Orange City Council’s Planning and Development Committee will discuss the planning proposal for a rectangular sporting complex on Priest Lane, off the Northern Distributor Road.
The proposed rectangular sports field complex will include grandstands, changing rooms, toilet blocks and parking areas.
The facility is envisaged to accommodate major sporting events attracting crowds of up to 15,000.
Three public submissions were received from residents in the area, primarily concerned with the potential disruption to the rural and scenic character of the locality.
The presence of naturally-occurring asbestos on the site will also be discussed.
Despite these concerns, Orange mayor John Davis said it was a matter of when, not if, the proposal was approved and developed.
“You’ve got to have a flexible plan, but there is no reason we can’t have a sporting precinct near the bypass,” he said.
“It’s the ideal position because it’s out of town yet easy to get to.
“There’s no doubt it will happen, but it depends on the priorities and the wishes of the council at the time.”
Cr Davis said, with such a young population, a sporting complex such as this would be needed in Orange over the coming years and if it was not approved, the city would be left wanting.
Orange CYMS captain coach Michael Sullivan said the development would not only benefit his club, but various other sporting clubs, fans and players in Orange.
“We’d be all for it. The more premier sporting facilities in Orange the better,” he said.
“It won’t be limited to just league and union, soccer is also growing.
“It would draw a bigger crowd, bigger games and also create a better atmosphere if the spectators are right on top of you.
“I’ve played at places like Leichhardt and Brookvale and those crowds are unreal.”
bryson.ferreira@fairfaxmedia.com.au