Following an open and transparent EOI process, Northern Beaches Council has allocated the use of synthetic sportsfields across the area for selected periods of the upcoming summer season, ensuring the high-value community assets are used sustainably and to their full potential. 

The EOI process was introduced in response to increasing and competing pressure for sports field space and the need to better manage synthetic fields, which support high-intensity, year-round use and help reduce pressure on natural turf fields.

Council received 30 applications from a diverse mix of sporting groups, including small-sided soccer, rugby union, AFL, touch football and gridiron. 

Applications were assessed against a structured and transparent framework, which prioritised suitability for synthetic surfaces, intensity of use, and overall community benefit.

Higher-intensity activities were prioritised to ensure synthetic fields are used efficiently and to help protect natural grass fields from overuse, reducing the need for closures and costly rehabilitation. 

The assessment also gave weight to community, volunteer based, not-for-profit organisations affiliated with recognised state and national sporting bodies, that reinvest in the local community and local sporting facilities and players. 

Traditional summer sports were also considered over those played traditionally in the winter season.  

While the process sought to maximise access and fairness, Council acknowledges that not all applicants were successful and some groups have received less access than applied for. The community will still have the same opportunity to participate in their chosen sport, though they may experience a change in the operator delivering the activity. 

Mayor Sue Heins said the transparent allocation is an important step in ensuring Council’s sports field network can meet growing community demand.

“Synthetic sportsfields are high-demand, high-value assets with significant maintenance and renewal costs,” Mayor Heins said.

“Synthetic sportsfields are high demand and high value assets, as the popularity of year-round, higher-intensity sport continues to grow,” Mayor Heins said.

“This new process ensures we are allocating these facilities in a way that maximises community benefit, is fair and equitable and protects our broader sportsfield network.

“While there are some changes to operators through this process, our community - our kids and our passionate and active local sportspeople - will still have the same opportunity to participate in their chosen sporting activities,” she said.  

Council will shortly open applications for summer turf field allocations.