The City of Victor Harbor will progress to a market-based expression of interest (EOI), seeking proposals for delivering and operating its ambitious sports and recreation precinct.

The August council meeting was told soft market testing indicates there is interest from the private sector in the project. 

The EOI is expected to be launched in the next few weeks, with proposals to be considered by the council before the end of 2023.

At the meeting the council made a formal resolution to apply for relevant grant funding opportunities as they become available, particularly targeting two Commonwealth funding streams in 2024 – Growing Regions, and the Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program. 

Mayor Dr Moira Jenkins says Council’s recent decisions are significant milestones towards achieving the delivery of the facility.

“There are great expectations from our community to deliver The Precinct. It’s something we’ve been working towards, and planning for, for many years,” she says.

“The EOI process, similar to what was undertaken by District Council of Mount Barker for The Summit, should put us in a strong position to apply for funding in 2024.”

In its annual business plan and budget the council indicated that rates would rise to help pay for The Precinct.

It says the EOI approach provides a way to be confident that all options have been explored to deliver the best possible outcomes for the community.

“Affordability and financial sustainability are the primary considerations of council in progressing this project, followed by the project driver of addressing community needs.”

Mayor Jenkins says that although the process might feel slow for some, it’s essential that the council undertakes appropriate due diligence.

“This project is the single largest piece of community infrastructure that the council is to deliver. It comes with a large price tag that has been further exacerbated in the current economic environment.”

“The Precinct is going to have a substantial, long-term impact on our community, so we need to get everything right. Make no mistake, The Precinct remains our highest priority, and the latest decisions by the council demonstrate our passion for delivering it.”

The latest project news, background information and relevant documents can be found on the council website.