The Council has committed $1.186m to the project with financial commitments of $510,000 by the Howrah Bowls Club and an $80,000 grant from the Department of Premier and Cabinet Sport and Recreation Division.
Stage 1 of the project involves the construction of a large 50m by 42m building with basic fit-out. Further works are to be undertaken by the Howrah Bowls Club to complete the installation of the timber floor and the bowls carpet. These items will bring the overall costing for the project to around $1.521m.
“I am pleased to see the commencement of the indoor bowls facility and the expansion of the Howrah Bowls Club,” Mayor of Clarence, Alderman Doug Chipman said.
“These works would not have been possible without the financial assistance and support of the Howrah Bowls Club and the Department of Premier and Cabinet Sport and Recreation Division who have contributed greatly to this project and I thank them for their support.
“It is exciting to see another sport and recreation facility being constructed in the city, along with a skate park at Kangaroo Bay, a stage, amphitheatre and public amenities at Simmons Park in Lindisfarne, and changerooms at Wentworth Park Sports Complex.”
The Howrah Bowls Club is very excited to see the culmination of four years of hard work with the commencement of building the indoor bowls centre today.
“The centre will ensure Howrah Bowls Club members and the broader community have access to a world class lawn bowling facility all year round. This will mean players can participate in a healthy lifestyle activity year round ensuring engagement and social inclusion within the community,” said the Secretary of the Club, Michael Matthews.
“The facility will attract state and national competitions bringing income into the community for local businesses. The facility will also be able to cater for extended competitions and social events that will include bowls programs for school groups, inter club competitions and special events.”
The facility is expected to be completed in June 2016.