New carparks to sport playing fields

Brisbane athletes will soon have access to even better sports facilities, with The University of Queensland set to invest $25 million in a new car park and artificial playing fields.

The project, funded by UQ and UQ Sport, will also include 500 new car parks, sports and recreational facilities and a bike box.

UQ Sport CEO Bryan Pryde said the new facilities will be built on top of Oval 4 and the softball diamond field.

“Project design began in January and we’re hoping to begin construction later in 2015,” Mr Pryde said.

“These two elevated fields will not only benefit the UQ community and UQ sporting clubs, but also the local community.

“The high-quality synthetic turf will be laid over shock pads to reduce injury, and field quality will always be consistent.

“The fields are more durable than grass ones, so there are no capacity issues. This means we can use the artificial fields more, and reduce the impact on our grass fields, improving sports facilities across campus.”

Property and Facilities Deputy Director Geoff Dennis said the project included sustainability initiatives like rain water harvesting, electric car charging, and secure bike storage facilities.

“UQ promotes and encourages sustainable transport options to University to support a healthy lifestyle and protect the environment,” Mr Dennis said.

“This new facility will include a Bike Box with space for 200 bicycles, and is conveniently near the Green Bridge, making it even easier for commuters to ride to work.

“The project also includes 500 new parking spaces to ease casual short term parking pressure at the St Lucia campus.”

The project is expected to be completed in mid-2016.

Media: Senior Communications Officer Katie Rowney, 3365 3439, Katie.Rowney@uq.edu.au or UQ Sport Marketing Coordinator Andrew Doak, 3346 7266 or 0415 837 639, andrewd@uqsport.com.au