By Jim Gainsford
St.George Leader
17/2/2005
Kogarah Council has approved the installation of new floodlighting towers and seating at Jubilee Oval, officially completing the approval process for stage one of the oval's $8 million upgrade.
The decision to approve the new floodlighting will be a defining moment in the history of Kogarah, said R2K (Return to Kogarah) spokesman Lachlan McLean.
"It secures the long-term future of elite rugby league in the St.George district after it was severely threatened during the Super League War and its aftermath," Mr McLean said.
The council has approved the installation of six light towers – two towers 15 to 20 metres high and four towers 35 to 40 metres high.
It has also approved the installation of permanent tiered seating for approximately 2,200 spectators at the northern and southern end of the oval and replacement of bench seating.
Costing around $2.455 million, the lighting and seating will be funded from the $8 million Federal Government grant for the upgrading of Jubilee Oval.
Funding for stage two of the upgrade is expected in the next financial year and is planned to provide more seating.
Cr Adam Mazzaferro said the lights to be installed were of the highest quality with the Council engaging Webb Australia, a firm of specialist lighting consultants who have worked on sporting facilities at Olympic Park Homebush and Sydney Football Stadium.
"Major consideration has been given to providing lighting for HDTV coverage, minimal spillage to roadway and neighbouring dwellings and spectator eye comfort," he said.
Kogarah Council is the trustee of the land and had to notify the Department of Lands as the owner of its intention to lodge a DA for the works.
