The $561,000 development was proposed by the Meander Valley Council.

Construction of the courts is expected to start in September and take about three months. 

It was important for the project to be finished by December, because of grants awarded to the Deloraine Devils Netball Club, the development application said.

“The complex is in high demand and is at capacity for the existing user groups,” it said. “The Deloraine Devils Netball Club trains at [the] complex, competing for available time slots with basketball and badminton.”

Having limited court availability impacted training time frames, access to facilities, potential club growth, training opportunities and partnerships with the Deloraine Primary School.

Adequate court lighting, from four new 12-metre towers, and fencing is also proposed. 

“The design will ensure the light will be angled away from the neighbouring properties and onto the courts, minimising spill onto adjoining residential properties,” the application said.

The courts would be located in the old wood chopping arena.  

An election promise from the Liberal government will contribute $100,000 to the project, the council will provide $277,190 and the Deloraine Districts and Community Bank have provided $30,000. The Community Infrastructure Fund will contribute $55,000, along with $44,000 from the Tasmanian Community Fund. 

The council, with the support of the Meander Valley Regional Recreation Precinct Working Group, is working on a feasibility study to identify ways to improve the region’s sporting facilities.