Defects lead to grandstand closure
Woy Woy Oval grandstand has been closed for an indefinite period after it was found to have structural defects.
The grandstand has been fenced off, preventing access to Woy Woy Oval through the entry gates and to the grandstand seating.
Access to the playing field will not be affected, and games scheduled for the oval are expected to proceed.
Gosford Council's manager of open space and leisure services Mr Phil Moore said: "Access to the ground floor facilities of the building is acceptable.
"This will allow usage of the change rooms, kiosk, amenities and storage rooms to minimise disruption to the winter season codes.
"It is understood that this will cause inconvenience to the clubs utilising this facility.
"However, in order to ensure no potential for injury to visitors to Woy Woy Oval, it is essential that the fencing is installed and that the associations and clubs ensure that no access is gained to these (fenced) areas under any circumstances."
Mr Moore said two structural engineers reports had been commissioned on the facility to provide Council with a thorough understanding on the integrity of the building structure.
Both structural engineer reports confirmed that the grandstand had severe structural defects that could only be remedied by major re-construction.
The reports also detailed the potential for the building to fail in the short term.
"Further advice is being sought from the structural engineers as to whether the concrete reinforcing between the two storeys is sufficient that in the worst case scenario of a roof structure failure occurring, the ground floor storey will not be significantly compromised," said Mr Moore.
Mr Moore said the grandstand facility was 34 years old, very dated and was built before the knowledge of current corrosion proofing solutions.
"The building condition has deteriorated over the last few years to the point where the actual structure is now in distress," said Mr Moore.
Media Statement, 27 Feb 2012
Phil Moore, Gosford Council
Photo: Naomi Bridges