Maitland loves a party.
So, what better way to celebrate than the grand opening of the Harold Gregson Reserve’s $7 million development?
The community get-together, on Saturday 20 July, will also double as the unveiling of the park’s new play tower, events lawn and much-anticipated amphitheatre.
Its completion is the final piece of the broader $27 million Maitland Regional Sports Complex project.
And, to mark the milestone, Maitland City Council will host a free, family-friendly gathering, featuring music, kids’ activities and food stalls between 2pm and 8pm.
Mayor Philip Penfold admitted Harold Gregson Reserve would “serve as a vibrant hub for community events” in the heart of the city.
“Its redevelopment is testament to our commitment to creating spaces that foster engagement and enhance the quality of life for our residents… and we look forward to celebrating with everyone on 20 July,” he said.
“But, the Maitland Regional Sports Complex project also highlights how council is working closely with the NSW Government to give Central Maitland a new lease on life.
“Over several phases and many years, we’ve invested in cultivating a state-of-the-art precinct that caters to sport and recreation, arts, entertainment and culture.
“Coupled with the sportsground and the athletics centre, Harold Gregson Reserve is a fantastic sector where the Maitland community can come and enjoy for many years.”
Council’s coordinator city events and activation Adam Franks said the grand opening event would provide something for everyone.
“For the first time, people can utilise all parts of Harold Gregson Reserve, including the new events lawn and amphitheatre,” he added.
“We’ve got lots in store, from kids’ workshops and inflatable games to a roller disco on the basketball court, as well as a range of food trucks and music in the amphitheatre.”
New elements of Harold Gregson Reserve, including the play tower, stage and bleacher seating, received $2,708,640 in funding from the NSW Government.
“The facilities will be an asset for the local community, providing improved amenity and positive social outcomes,” Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said.
“The play space and events lawn are a fantastic addition where family and friends can connect outside.
“The NSW Government is committed to supporting community infrastructure upgrade projects across regional NSW that boost health and wellbeing outcomes.”
Maitland MP Jenny Aitchison agreed.
“The transformation of Harold Gregson Reserve is one of many exciting projects the NSW Government is delivering across the Hunter,” she said.
“Right now, we’re delivering more than $3.5 billion worth of infrastructure across the region and we are ensuring Maitland continues to benefit from this unprecedented investment.
“While we are helping people reduce their daily commute to work with large road infrastructure ventures, we’re also supporting the need for recreation areas to revitalise Central Maitland.
“Thanks to this investment, families and community groups now have a fantastic new space to enjoy and it will make Maitland an even more attractive place to live, work in and visit now and for generations to come.”
For more information about Harold Gregson Reserve and the launch event, visit mait.city/HGRLaunchEvent.
For more news stories:
- Apprentice baker rising to top of his profession
- Hunter Water doubles supply to Cameron Park, Fletcher
- Charlestown to benefit from new $7.7m fire station
Get all the latest Newcastle news, sport, real estate, entertainment, lifestyle and more delivered straight to your inbox with the Newcastle Weekly Daily Newsletter. Sign up here.
