The City of Joondalup council has unanimously endorsed a staged approach to the redevelopment of Heathridge Park, bringing the long-awaited project a step closer to construction after more than six years of planning.
Detailed design can now begin on the $18 million first stage, which will deliver a new multi-sport facility and necessary site infrastructure upgrades while removing two northern tennis courts to make way for the build.
However, with the entire four-stage project estimated to cost $29.4 million, the city will still need to secure more money to deliver the full redevelopment, with only $10 million currently funded.
At last week’s council meeting, elected members supported the proposed staged approach, acknowledged the financial shortfall and directed the city to explore other ways to fund the project.
Mayor Daniel Kingston said the city was committed to seeing the redevelopment move forward as the park was a valued community sporting and recreation hub.
“By adopting a staged delivery approach, we can continue progressing the project while carefully managing costs and ensuring we have a clear understanding of funding requirements before construction begins,” Mr Kingston said.
“The staged approach will allow the city to continue planning for improved facilities while seeking opportunities to bridge the project’s funding gap.
“This is a practical and measured decision that keeps the project moving while providing the flexibility to pursue additional funding opportunities from external sources and potential partners.
“Commencing detailed design work for stage one is an important next step and will provide greater certainty around project scope and costs, helping inform future decisions by council.”
Camera IconThe masterplan of the City of Joondalup’s proposed Heathridge Park redevelopment. Credit: Supplied
Of the $10 million currently funded for the redevelopment, $7.5 million comes from the State and Federal governments, while $2.5 million comes from the City of Joondalup.
Joondalup State MP Emily Hamilton spoke at the council meeting, expressing frustration with the lack of progress but urged the council to keep the “much-needed” project moving forward.
“I’m disappointed that for the past five years the council has yet to commit to delivering to the project, but I’m here today to share my strong views and support the council to get behind the redevelopment of Heathridge Park and commit to deliver this critical project,” Ms Hamilton said.
“The need for upgrades at Heathridge Park has been well known for over a decade now. We know that these facilities are amongst the oldest in the city, and have reached their end of asset life.
“Not only is the site rundown, it’s no longer fit for purpose. It’s no longer able to support our active and engaged community.”
Camera IconThe current facilities at Heathridge Park, which is home to 16 sporting and recreation clubs with more than 3600 registered members. Credit: Supplied
The park is home to 16 sporting and recreation clubs, which have more than 3600 registered members between them.
Samantha Vallet, representing Ocean Ridge Tennis Club, told the council the popular sporting precinct risked falling further behind the needs of the growing community without further investment.
“Across Heathridge Park, participation in football, cricket, tennis, pickleball and other activities continues to rise, yet the current facilities no longer meet the needs of the growing population,” Ms Vallet said.
“Parking is inadequate, club rooms do not fit the current membership, toilets and changerooms are outdated, tennis courts are cracking, and the buildings have deteriorated to the point where refurbishment or development is essential.
“With major developments such as the Ocean Reef Marina, increasing residential density in the northern corridor, the demand on Heathridge Park is only going to intensify.”
Camera IconConcept images from 2024 showcasing the proposed new community sporting facility at Heathridge Park. Credit: City of Joondalup
Stage two of the proposed plan will involve upgrades to the Heathridge Community Centre and demolition of the existing clubrooms, while stage three will include a new 3×3 basketball pad, public artwork and landscaping works.
Stage four will involve demolishing the Guy Daniel Clubrooms, constructing 40 new parking bays and two replacement tennis courts, and final landscaping and civil works.
Before a contractor is chosen to deliver stage one, the council will receive a report outlining the expected cost of the work, the project’s financial position and any additional money required.
The city hopes to begin construction on stage one in mid-2027 and have all four stages completed by late 2030, subject to council approval and the necessary funding being secured.