$8million puzzle for Unley Oval

To this little black duck, who is committed to saving Council as much  money as possible to minimise rate rises, the debate seemed blindingly simple. Go along with the milling throng of 71 local residents who took part in a community survey, and  said “yes” to a $8.2million scheme for a make-over of the grandstands at Unley Oval, or side with the Double Blues and their scheme for something at a quarter of the price!

The marathon gabfest eventually came to a decision: The result of the community notice  be noted. In-principle endorsement be given for the upgrade. Council work with the Sturt Football Club to explore the feasibility of their preferred option . This to include finalisation of concept plans  and cost estimates. A further progress report be presented to Council in July. Council work with the Federal and State Governments and other external bodies, seeking grant funding opportunities for both concepts.

All this came about after it was revealed in the executive summary that Sturt had submitted an alternative proposal with reduced scope and costs and with alterations that would meet their requirements.

The club’s alternative proposal would incorporate away team facilities in the McKay Stand, home team facilities in the Oatey Stand, SFC administration offices on  the ground floor of the Oatey Stand , plus a community function area on the Oatey Stand’s first floor.

With the spectre of rate-capping looming over the second-tier political horizon, Grumpy will DEFINITELY plump for the lesser of the two evils if it keeps Sturt happy.