Indoor cricket nets set for Waverley Oval

Plans are afoot for a new indoor cricket facility at Waverley Oval, as the council looks to “fill the shortfall” of training facilities caused by the demolition of Allianz Stadium.

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Waverley Council wants to “fill the shortfall” of a lack of sporting facilities caused by the demolition of Allianz Stadium, with plans afoot for a new cricket hub.

Easts Cricket Club has approached the council to propose an indoor practice net facility at the southern end of the O’Sullivan Horsell Grandstand at Waverley Oval.

The council, which would own and manage the facility, has given in-principle support to investigate Easts’ proposal.

It would be used as Easts’ main training centre but would also available for hire for parties and events.

Waverley Mayor John Wakefield at the site of a potential indoor cricket centre at Waverley Oval. Picture: Supplied

Mayor John Wakefield said the current use of the area he called the “giant astro steps” was low and the nets would be an “ideal improvement” of the site’s functionality.

“It’s vital that we fill the demand in Waverley and the greater east for good sporting facilities,” he said.

“This will benefit the club, the community and sport in the region.”

As part of the $730 million redevelopment of Allianz Stadium, the indoor cricket net facility between the stadium at the Sydney Cricket Ground will be reduced from 12 to four lanes.

Easts had been regular users of the facility for both its junior and senior clubs, training twice per week during the pre-season and season proper.

Mayor John Wakefield said the site could help fill the void of nets lost to Allianz Stadium’s demolition. Picture: Supplied

Waverley Council challenged the stadium’s demolition in court, and Cr Wakefield said Waverly Oval could help in offsetting community facilities lost to the project.

“Regrettably there’s been some displacement, but hopefully Waverley can fill this shortfall created by the demolition of the stadium,” he said.

Cr Wakefield said the club first came to council with its proposal a year ago, but no timeline for official approval and construction has been set. A design is yet to be completed.

“If it was up to me it would be tomorrow,” he said.

Eastern Suburbs Cricket Club have played at Waverley Oval since 1887. Picture: John Appleyard

Formerly known as Waverley Cricket Club, Easts have called Waverley Oval home since 1887 and have been instrumental in its development into one of the best multi-sport facilities in the eastern suburbs.

A $75,000 NSW Government stronger communities grant has already been awarded for the construction of new cricket nets at Waverley Park, but the total cost of the project will depend on the final design.

Cr Wakefield said the council would ensure the project was “lightweight … a small wing” on the side of the grandstand to minimise its impact on the park’s other amenities.