Summary
Location: 200 Harbour Boulevard, Shell Cove
Timeframe: Mid-2027
Funding: Shellharbour City Council & NSW Government's Level the Playing Field Program
About the Project
The Shell Cove Sport and Recreation Facility is located on the southern edge of the award-winning Shell Cove development.
The sportsfield will provide a modern and accessible space that caters to the community’s needs and will provide a quality sporting facility for the Shellharbour LGA.
Originally identified in Council's Section 94 Development Contributions Plan of 2005 as a multipurpose open space facility the Shell Cove Sportsfield is a long-planned community recreation project located at 200 Harbour Boulevard, 300metres from the Shellharbour Marina Boat ramp. The Shell Cove Sportsfield has been carefully planned over many years to provide new, high-quality open space for the growing Shell Cove community. Developed through close collaboration between Council, local sporting clubs and design specialists, the project reflects a shared vision to create a vibrant and welcoming community sporting precinct.
The new sportsfield has been primarily allocated for AFL and Cricket, while still being designed with the flexibility to accommodate a range of other sporting codes. The project includes:
- A full-size multi-use playing field, turf cricket wicket
- Sportsfield lighting
- Versatile sportsfield amenities for men's and women's sport
- Accessible toilets and pathways.
- Carparking
Once complete, the Shell Cove Sportsfield will provide much-needed active open space for the growing Shell Cove community and create a long-term home for local AFL and Cricket clubs.
Timeline
Detailed project design - Complete
Council has partnered with Taylor Brammer Landscape Architects and their sub-consultant team to progress the projects design to 100% detailed design, forming the basis for procurement of a Construction Builder.
Early Works Tender - Commenced January 2026
Council is completing tender documentation for the Shell Cove Sportsfield readying to commence the procurement of a specialist contractor to complete the earthworks and construct the sportsfield surface, inground drainage and irrigation.
Early Works Construction – Commencement April 2026
Following the successful award of a specialist contractor will construct the projects early works.
Main Works Construction – Expected completion June 2027
Once the early works have reached a suitable point in construction, the main works tender will be issued for the procurement of a specialist builder to complete the finalisation of the facility including the sportsfield amenities building, carparking and other key items.
Opening - Expected Mid-2027
FAQs
How is this project being funded?
The project is funded through S7.11 development contributions collected by Shellharbour Council as part of the Shell Cove Development. The project also received $2 million in grant funding from the NSW Government's Level the Playing Field Program.
When will construction happen?
Construction is earmarked to start in the first quarter of 2026.
What sports will be played here?
This is a multisport facility that has been allocated towards serving the future needs of local AFL and cricket. The field construction will feature a versatile design to allow other sporting codes to also utilise the field when available. Bookings will be available on Councils website once the project is completed.
How long will construction take?
The construction time is heavily dependent on weather and will require time to allow the turf cricket wicket to settle. The estimated time for construction is 12-15months.
Are there any environmental impacts and how will they be managed?
A review of environmental factors (REF) will be undertaken, which will identify any impacts the project may have on the environment and how they will be managed. This will be published to this webpage for public view prior to commencement on the project.
How will noise, dust and environmental impacts be managed during construction?
The contractor is required to comply with strict environmental and safety controls. Measures include dust suppression, noise management, sediment controls and designated work zones to ensure minimal impact on the Harbour environment and nearby residents.
Will there be public car parking as part of the project?
Yes. The Shell Cove Sportsfield includes a dedicated carpark designed to service visitors, customers, and users of the Shellharbour Marina.