Cr Lambros Tapinos, Moreland Mayor

Hosken Reserve in Coburg North will be home to a new synthetic soccer pitch, allowing more football club participants, local schools, women and girls and wider diverse community to access to modern, safe and inclusive facility.

The new sporting facility will include 100-lux LED lighting, a shock pad and low-level fencing.

The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA)-accredited synthetic surface will contribute to the low-maintenance, drought-resistant and durable all year-round facility – able to withstand up to 10 years of wear and tear.

The new pitch will support field usage of up to 70 hours per week, which is double that of a standard grass field.

Moreland Mayor Cr Lambros Tapinos said it is important that Council continues to create high quality, state-of-the-art sporting facilities for the Moreland community to enjoy.

“Having quality open space and sporting facilities enhances the liveability of our city as we welcome more residents to Moreland,” said Cr Tapinos.

“Well designed and accessible sporting facilities also encourage our community to stay active, healthy and connected.” Moreland Council has committed $900,000 to the project as part of the Sport and Active Recreation Strategy 2019.

A $500,000 grant secured through the Victorian Government’s World Game Facilities Fund and a $50,000 contribution from Pascoe Vale Football Club will see the project become a reality.

The final design for the facility was due to go to tender last month and construction of the new soccer pitch will begin in January.