The NSW Government has allocated a further $20 million for showground upgrades across the State to improve community infrastructure, support jobs and stimulate local economies in response to the pandemic.
Minister for Water, Property and Housing Melinda Pavey said this further funding injection brings the total to $55 million worth of investment in showgrounds as part of the COVID-19 stimulus program.
“This investment will improve the safety and quality of showground infrastructure while stimulating local economies by providing work for a host of local tradies and materials suppliers,” Mrs Pavey said.
“Showgrounds are incredibly valuable community infrastructure, whether it’s for events and shows or use as emergency centres during crisis events. This investment in Crown land ensures showgrounds can continue to serve communities throughout the State for many years to come, building a stronger and safer regional NSW.”
To date, improvement work has included the rebuilding of grandstands and pavilions, upgrades of kitchen and amenities blocks, lighting and electrical systems, water and sewerage networks and roads and fencing.
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes said the further funding will boost jobs and contribute to local communities adversely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The NSW Government previously provided $35 million across the State to support 623 upgrade projects at 187 showgrounds, which has so far supported over 1,490 jobs, providing work for tradespeople, suppliers and fabricators”, Mr Stokes said.
“Now with the allocation of this further $20 million we will see another 172 upgrade projects at 73 showgrounds to support more improvements and jobs.
“Showgrounds are multi-use facilities at the heart of our communities and this continued funding comes at a critical time when COVID-19 has been disrupting annual shows and other activities that showgrounds rely on for their income.”