Central Oval in Port Augusta could be the site of a $5 million upgrade under an Opposition plan unveiled recently.

Opposition Leader Isobel Redmond said that increased investment in the Regional Development Infrastructure Fund would allow for the upgrade of Port Augusta’s main sporting precinct.

The oval is currently a popular site for some games of the Spencer Gulf Football League, which comprises six teams from Port Augusta and Port Pirie.

The upgrade will also increase the city’s chances of attracting more community events such as concerts.

According to Liberal candidate for Stuart, Dan van Holst Pellekaan, an upgrade of the city’s Central Oval has been a focus of the Port Augusta community for some time, and would increase sporting, social and economic benefits in the area.

“The upgrade of facilities at the Central oval precinct will benefit all of the Upper Spencer Gulf and outback residents, whether young or old, sport lovers or not,” he said.

“The redevelopment of the Central Oval precinct will mean the reunion of netball and football at the site as well as improved facilities for many other sporting codes.” Under the Regional Development Infrastructure Fund, about $40 million would be invested in the scheme each year to benefit country South Australia, if the Liberals were elected to

government.

The council, businesses or individuals would have to put up half the cost of

projects with the rest being covered by the royalty scheme.