25 November 2021
A number of the netball courts at the Springfield Central Sports Complex will temporarily close from Friday, 26 November owing to safety concerns.
Cracks and crumbling of the playing surface have become severe as ground movement has occurred and will need extensive repairs.
Ipswich Deputy Mayor and Division 2 Councillor Nicole Jonic said it was necessary to close 11 of the 16 netball courts.
“Temporary fencing will be set up around the courts so that work can commence on the netball surface,” Cr Jonic said.
“The safety of residents is our first concern and the courts have been assessed as being unsafe due to cracks appearing on the surface.
“Council and Lendlease Communities Springfield are working to find a solution as soon as possible.”
Work at the complex involves monitoring the netball court surface, investigatory works to the courts sub-pavement and rehabilitation work on areas that may be impacted.
Division 2 Councillor Paul Tully said council has been working with sporting groups who are being impacted by the temporary closure.
“It is disappointing to have to inform the local sporting clubs who regularly use the facility that sections of the complex must close,” Cr Tully said.
“While council did not build the courts, they are now maintained by council and we must act quickly to ensure the safety of the community and the longevity of the sports complex.”
The netball courts were built as part of the ongoing development of Springfield Central and were opened in September 2019 with Ipswich City Council taking over the management of the courts at that time.
It is expected investigatory works and subsequent repairs may be a lengthy process. Council will provide regular community updates as works progress to keep residents informed.