MANUKA Oval will get broadcast-quality lighting as part of tomorrow’s ACT Budget. The ACT Government has promised more than $6 million to the already confirmed $2.5 million from the Federal Government.

Sport Minister Andrew Barr said $2.5 million will be put towards the new lighting and a further $3.18 million to finalise detailed design for a future redevelopment to undertake initial upgrade works.

“Community consultations undertaken in 2009 confirmed that Manuka was highly valued by the Canberra community; however, in order to attract first class sporting events, Manuka urgently needs more modern infrastructure and the new lights and upgraded facilities are the first stage of that development,” he said.

“The proposal is for the construction of six, 47-metre towers which will provide the most effective lighting of the ground, while at the same time minimising the impact of the lights on the areas surrounding the oval.”

The National Capital Authority is currently consulting on the proposal, which is open to public comment until 4pm on July 12.

The announcement is also part of a bigger plan for Manuka, Barr said, with preliminary design work undertaken on development options for Manuka.

“This follows the development of the 2009 Master Plan and Business Case,” Barr said.

“This work confirmed that Manuka’s ageing facilities were in urgent need of new or upgraded facilities including cricket media facilities, additional seating, corporate facilities, catering facilities, public concessions, scoreboard, entry gates and the implementing of appropriate environmental systems.

“Any redevelopment will, of course, comply with a Conservation Management Plan which is currently being prepared, and will be consistent with Manuka’s recent listing on the ACT Heritage Register.”