By MELISSA MEEHAN
THE long-awaited UT CRASH project is finally a step closer to getting started, thanks to $1 million funding from the Yarra Ranges Council.
The funding is part of a $2 million policy which would see money allocated to sporting pavilion improvements each year.
The policy also includes Belgrave South Community Sports Pavilion and Don Road Soccer and Netball Pavilion.
Mayor Fiona McAllister said the council had conducted an audit of sports pavilions last year and found that many were inadequate.
“Most were built in the ’60s and ’70s in a time when things were different,” she said.
“Many don’t have suitable change rooms for women or umpires.”
The UT CRASH committee is thrilled with the news, and celebrated last week at their Upwey facility.
The funding will mean that 23 community groups, including sporting clubs and other organisations will have a new home.
“This project is going to cost roughly $2.5 million,” committee member Andrew Peterson said.
“Confirmed funding includes $250,00 from the Dandenong Ranges Community Bank, $500,000 from the Federal Government and $250,000 from members in cash and kind.
“So it’s great the council is also supporting the project too.”
Mr Peterson said the group had also contacted the State Government and was hoping they would chip in $500,00 for the project.
The hub will also include a designated Neighbourhood Safer Place, which will serve as a meeting place for the community in the event of a local emergency, such as bushfire.
Mr Peterson said he hoped to have the project, which will include a two-level facility with sporting facilities, a large multipurpose room and large number of meeting rooms and offices, started by this time next year.
