It seems incredible that two years have passed since a multi-sport stadium proposal was first put forward for Port Pirie and, indeed, the Mid North.
The idea has been refined and revamped, but still retains a simple approach – consolidate a group of sports in one building to reduce overall costs, by sharing amenities such as canteens and change-rooms, and provide for future development.
There is a vision for this “sporting hub” in Mary Elie Street near Memorial Oval and the swimming pool.
The street could be closed to boost the scope of the project. What is the alternative, if the project falls over?
There is no doubt that existing sport venues will become older, needing stop-gap repairs that delay inevitable problems.
The YMCA is a good example of a far-sighted approach. It has jettisoned its old building to embrace a bold, new era.