Dragons submit development application for High Performance Centre
A new $50 million Community and High Performance Centre in the Illawarra region is a step closer, with the Dragons submitting the development application as concept images are revealed.
To be located at the University of Wollongong's Innovation Campus, the NSW Government has committed $40 million to the project.
St George Illawarra's entire football and community operation would be housed under one roof in time for the 2025 NRL season, with construction anticipated to commence in the second half of 2023, subject to obtaining the necessary approvals, with an estimated completion in late 2024.
NSW Treasurer Matt Kean said the State Government is investing $40 million in the project, which will set a new benchmark for community, education and sporting excellence.
“This facility will be a fantastic community asset, bridging the gap between elite sport and the girls and boys who love getting together for a kick around, swim or gym session,” Mr Kean said.
“Athletes will benefit from two full-sized fields with floodlights, NRL and NRLW change rooms, a large state-of-the-art gym, a hot-and-cold aquatic recovery centre, a physio and strapping room, a lecture theatre and a player lounge area.
“This centre will also house a merchandise zone as well as the club’s administration offices, bringing the Dragons’ entire operations into one location.”
Dragons Chairman Andrew Lancaster said the club had worked hard to develop a proposal that will deliver for the community, University of Wollongong, rugby league and the region.
“The CHPC will provide exciting opportunities to further the club's community partnership activities that stretch from the St George region to the Illawarra, South Coast and beyond,” Mr Lancaster said.
“It will build on the 20 different programs and more than 114,000 community members currently engaging with St George Illawarra each year, and be a catalyst for increased female participation in sport.”
NSW Minister for Sport Alister Henskens said the project is expected to create 229 new jobs during construction and support more than 60 new full-time jobs once operational.
“The Illawarra is a traditional rugby league stronghold, and this new facility will foster the next generation of talent from across the region,” Mr Henskens said.
“Opportunities for those attending University of Wollongong will be extensive, with student access to the CHPC expected to reach 30-45 hours per week in the name of improved education, research, data sharing and partnership outcomes.”
Two development applications concerning the relocation of existing heritage buildings and the subsequent construction of the CHPC have been lodged with Wollongong City Council.
The project is being funded by the NSW Government, which has committed more than $1 billion to community sports infrastructure since 2017.
