A long-term vision to create a modern, inclusive sport and recreation precinct at Thorneside is taking shape, with Redland City Council set to endorse the William Taylor Memorial Sports Fields Master Plan.
The comprehensive master plan outlines a staged redevelopment of the popular precinct on Ivy Street, home to Mooroondu Football Club, Wellington Point Cricket Club, Thorneside Community Tennis, and Raiders Netball.
It also includes facilities such as a skate park, BMX track, pétanque court and playground.
Stage 1 of the project has already been delivered, with new LED lighting installed on the main soccer field in late 2024.
A major milestone was reached in August 2024 when Council secured $5.7 million through the Queensland Government’s SEQ Liveability Program to deliver Stage 2 of the plan, which will include a new district-level skate park, upgraded BMX track, pétanque area, multi-court, dog off-leash area, new public amenities, and an extended carpark with improved drainage.
These works are scheduled for completion by June 2027.
Future stages of the master plan will focus on upgrading sports fields, improving lighting and drainage, relocating and expanding netball courts, and constructing a new clubhouse with modern change rooms and shared community spaces.
Council says the plan responds to growing demand for quality sporting facilities and reflects changing participation trends across the city.
Redlands is projected to experience a 31 per cent population increase between 2021 and 2046, with evolving sports such as pickleball and greater female participation driving new facility needs.
Extensive consultation helped shape the master plan, with input from tenant clubs, local Councillor Paul Bishop, and the Thorneside community.
Council officers said the William Taylor Memorial Sports Fields Master Plan sets a benchmark for precinct-level planning, ensuring future investment delivers fit-for-purpose facilities that meet the community’s needs now and into the future.
