The newly installed pitch at the multi-use facility had drawn negative attention since its installation, with equestrian groups who regularly use the facility voicing concern for the safety of horses and riders.

Mr Brady said club members are “fast becoming football nomads”.

“We had no communication from the Launceston City Council about the [cricket pitch] being installed,” Mr Brady said. 

“That equestrian area – we use that and rely upon that.

“Because Invermay Park is now managed by the LCC like UTAS Stadium, we so desperately need this horse field for training. 

“We’ve written to the council about [our numbers] doubling in size.

“There are not enough grounds in Launceston full stop. It’s a major problem,” Mr Brady said.

Equestrian Tasmania’s 2018 Horse of the Year and Rider Championships faced “reduced usability” of the area.

Launceston equestrian show chairwoman Ash Smith said having concrete in the middle of the arena was a safety hazard, and would increase danger for riders and horses.

Horse of the Year event organiser Chimene Deavin said the concrete “was not ideal”.

“We had to restructure the event,” Ms Deavin said.

“We usually run two rings in the morning, and due to the cricket pitch we’ve only been able to run one.

“We’ve had to make a number of adjustments to try and work around it. It’s been inconvenient,” she said.

City of Launceston general manager Mr Stretton said he had noted the concerns of the community.

"We've listened to the criticisms from some members of the equestrian community about the new pitch, and we'll consider those to see if there's a workaround that everyone can agree on,” he said.

"Different groups generally understand that compromises are involved in any multi-user facility which caters to such a diverse array of sporting pursuits.”

Mr Stretton said the pitch was installed to accommodate “booming” junior cricket club memberships.

RELATED NEWS: