Synthetic pitch at Epping

■ Plans to install a new synthetic soccer pitch at Harvest Home Rd Recreation Reserve have moved a step closer.

City of Whittlesea Administrators voted last week to award the tender for a new FIFA-accredited synthetic pitch and lighting to replace the one installed back in 2008, which no longer meets the needs of tenant Whittlesea Ranges Football Club or the wider community.

The pitch redevelopment is expected to increase usage by 52 per cent – or 17 hours – per week and create opportunities to grow the club’s female and junior programs.

Whittlesea Ranges FC council liaison David Sforzato said the upgrade would improve safety and be a drawcard for prospective players.

He said the club intended to field a senior women’s team next year and aimed to boost female participation across all age groups.

“If female players see that we have state-ofthe-art facilities then they will have the confidence to join our club,” he said.

City of Whittlesea Chair Administrator Lydia Wilson said Council’s Active Whittlesea Strategy 2019-2028 identified the lack of suitable facilities as a significant barrier to female participation in all sports.