City of Karratha embarks on $19 million facelift for Leisureplex sporting complex

The first stages of the $19 million facelift of the Karratha Leisureplex are set to begin after the local government approved a tender for stage one works. At last month’s meeting, City of Karratha councillors approved a motion to award the tender for the gymnasium and function room redevelopment worth $390,000 to local company Trasan Contracting. The $19.27m upgrade was approved in November and includes new shading for the ovals and outdoor courts, and spectator seating at the 50m pool. Other features include redeveloping outdoor and indoor basketball courts, redesigning the function room to include a group fitness area, and upgraded pool lighting. Stage one of the works includes a new plaster stud wall to be installed in the function room to create a new storeroom for equipment; ceiling fan upgrades; and upgrades to lighting. The gymnasium works include the installation of new high-quality rubber floor coverings in group fitness, cardio, and fitness equipment, store room areas; wall fan upgrades; and audio-visual and speaker modifications. Karratha Mayor Peter Long said the upgrades would vastly improve the facility for the community. “Since opening in 2013, the Karratha Leisureplex has seen over 3.5 million visitors through its doors, and it was always anticipated that refurbishments would occur from time to time,” he said. “Initial improvements including the oval spectator shade are under way, with the contract signed for construction to begin shortly. “The redevelopment of the gym and function room represents the next steps of the overall works that will vastly improve facilities and amenity at the Leisureplex, while meeting growing community expectations.” The plan, designed by Perth-based firm Peter Hunt Architect, is expected to be rolled out in stages over five years. Construction of stage one is expected to begin this month and last for 12 weeks.