Albury City Council has bought two parcels of land in Hamilton Valley which in the short term will boost event parking for the neighbouring Lavington Sports Ground and Lavington Bowling Club, which are both owned by Council.
In a statement, Mayor, Kylie King said the land purchase – for an undisclosed sum – consolidates AlburyCity’s landholdings in the important community precinct.
“The recent listing of the property provided an exciting opportunity for AlburyCity to secure land to consolidate our existing landholdings and support the strong growth in activity we’ve seen at the Lavington Sports Ground,” said AlburyCity Mayor, Kylie King.
“It also paves the way for the exploration of other uses that can further enhance the precinct and liveability of this area of the city.
“The purchase of the land will support the achievement of the community’s Albury Toward 2050 vision of a nationally significant regional city, with sustainable population growth, high-quality infrastructure, industry-leading services and high levels of amenity.”
She said the land’s proximity to the Lavington Sports Ground and its potential to become part of future master planning for the precinct were key factors in the purchase.
Lavington Sports Ground contributes more than $10 million to the visitor economy each year by hosting major carnivals and sporting events for our region, including Big Bash League cricket, NRL and AFL exhibition matches.
Parking will be available in the formed carpark and the grassed area along Hanna Street for the upcoming BBL game on 23 December.
The two parcels of land acquired by AlburyCity, at 791 Centaur Road and 495 Hanna Street in Hamilton Valley, total just over four hectares.
The timing of future master planning for the precinct, including the recently acquired sites, will be considered when Council develops its next draft Four Year Delivery Program, Council said in a statement.
Any future planning will be subject to community consultation throughout the process, it said.
