Mini soccer fields for bowls club?

Gosford Council is currently considering a development application to transform a bowling green into two miniature soccer fields at Woy Woy Bowling Club.

Council's acting manager of development Mr Jim Mahoney said the two soccer fields would each measure 35 by 35 metres to fit within the existing bowling green on the site.

He said council had received a number of submissions from community members concerned with the proposal.

"Council will be taking all submissions it receives as part of the public exhibition process into consideration," Mr Mahoney said.

"The miniature soccer fields will be surrounded by a two metre high fence and netting to ensure no balls go outside the area.

"Existing lighting at the site will also be utilised."

Mr Mahoney said the development was a joint venture of Kick Off Soccer and Woy Woy Bowling Club.

Club proprietor Mr Tony Altavilla said the proposed miniature soccer fields would prove to be a good facility for the community.

He said he understood there were concerns over noise, lighting and parking for the new facility but assured the community and local residents that all matters would be addressed.

"There are almost 200 car parking spaces at the club now, existing lighting will be used and as for noise concerns, the club already holds functions and bowls on a regular basis which doesn't seem to affect surrounding residents."

Clare Graham, 14 Oct 2009 Interviewee: Jim Mahoney, Gosford Council Tony Altavilla, Woy Woy Bowling Club