THE redevelopment of Tynwald Park sport facilities have been officially opened after more than $1 million was spent on the project. The $1.2 million project included refitting to include male and female change rooms, a referee/umpire room, accessible toilet, kiosk, bar, storage space and spectator’s area.

The Federal Government provided $600,000, the Derwent Valley Council $500,000 and the State Government $80,000. Lyons Labor MP Brian Mitchell said the upgrade was an important part of contributing to the health and well-being of the community.

“The Derwent Valley is one of Tasmania’s fastest growing areas and requires public amenities to meet increasing community needs,’’ Mr Mitchell said. “The New Norfolk community now has access to a multi-purpose, adaptable, open community space that will allow more clubs and their players to participate in more sports, assist in the expansion of existing events, and encourage the development and hosting of new events.

“It is estimated that 18,000 people will use the upgraded facility each year, which will include the New Norfolk Red Caps Cricket Club, New Norfolk Panthers Soccer Club, New Norfolk Junior Football Club, and teams from outside of the Derwent Valley area.’’

Meanwhile, the Derwent Valley Council is calling for users of Tynwald Park to give feedback on its draft masterplan. The masterplan is designed to create a vision for Tynwald Park to help guide its future development and management. This will include looking at ways to maximise the layout of sporting fields and recreation facilities to increase opportunities for the wider community to make use of and enjoy the area.

Derwent Valley Mayor Michelle Dracoulis said the intention of the masterplan was to build on the park’s historical uses and enhance the area as a community facility.

“We want Tynwald Park to provide sporting, open space and recreation opportunities that cater for all members of the community and want to hear from all regular users, visitors, and nearby residents,’’ Mrs Dracoulis said. “The masterplan will define the future direction for Tynwald Park, in terms of what facilities are available to meet the current and future uses of the space, as well as take into consideration the ongoing maintenance and management of the area.”

To provide feedback go to https:// yoursay.derwentvalley.tas.gov.au/ tynwald

The survey closes at 5pm Thursday December 15.