From the Port Philip Leader
Reported by Paul Riordan
Full Article
THE $4.7 million redevelopment of Port Melbourne’s North Port Oval was delayed after tests revealed the playing surface was contaminated.
But Port Phillip Council said the work was “now back on track†because the results posed no future threat to users or the building project.
Port Melbourne Football Club director Peter Bromley said the club “would have liked to have seen the work start fasterâ€.
“Contamination is a nuisance, but a considerable part of Port Melbourne has contamination issues so it’s not surprising.
“It’s prudent to do these tests first ,†Mr Bromley said.
He said the last upgrade at the Williamstown Rd ground was in 1946 when the American army left behind US$20,000 after using it as a base during World War II.
The council is expected to appoint an architect for the project this month.
The State Government has chipped in $1 million for the project, Port Phillip Council will pay $1.7 million and Football Victoria $500,000. The balance will be paid by the football club.
A community reference group will be set up this month, with the council expected to ask interested people to join.
