Brighton Grammar is set to invest $2 million into Wilson Recreation Reserve
A multimillion-dollar sporting facility at Wilson Recreation Reserve has been given the green light, with Brighton Cricket Club promised summer use. And the neighbouring private school will foot the bill for the revamp.
Inner South
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Brighton Grammar School is poised to invest up to $2 million to upgrade facilities at Wilson Recreation Reserve and sign a 21-year lease from Bayside council to become the official primary user.
The private school currently uses the space for rugby, cricket and as a breakout area for students during term.
And last night the council gave the all-boys school the go ahead to develop a plan for a new pavilion which will include public toilets and changing rooms at the reserve.
Importantly Brighton Cricket Club, which was kicked off the ground to make way for Brighton Grammar halfway through a game in November, is on board with the school’s plans.
Club president Bernard Mutimer said the club has more girls teams joining and they needed a place to play with appropriate facilities for females.
Brighton Grammar principal Ross Featherston said the proposal ensures the sportsground remains accessible for community use when not allocated for local club or school sports activities.
“It does not result in any changes to the existing use of the reserve,” he said.
“The proposal suggests the use of the Reserve will be allocated by Council for summer use by local Bayside cricket clubs, including Brighton Cricket Club, that will directly benefit from the development of a new pavilion facility and upgraded sportsground.”
Cr Michael Heffernan said the school’s investment in the reserve was a great thing for the community without the council having to spend a cent.
“Importantly they’re going to keep the community use of the oval the same as it was before,” he said.
“The community is getting something of real value.”
The school is set to lease the facility from council for 21 years at a peppercorn rate, and Cr Heffernan said the lengthy period is needed.
“I think that’s fair enough given how much they’re spending,” he said.
Cr Laurence Evans said the lease needed to be substantial for the type of investment offered.
“I welcome the partnership with Brighton GS, I think they’re an outstanding school,” he said.
“Some people question the 21 years but unless you give sureity people won’t invest.”
The school will now develop plans, as well as undertake a public consultation process.