New $1.15m changerooms open at Cooks Square Park in East Maitland

newy.com.au – A new $1.15 million amenities building has officially opened at Cooks Square Park in East Maitland, delivering modern changerooms and upgraded facilities for local sporting clubs.

The project, jointly funded by the NSW and Australian governments under the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program, is intended to support Maitland’s growing football community with more inclusive, accessible facilities and better playing conditions.

Maitland Mayor Philip Penfold said the new building represented a major step forward for one of the city’s premier sporting venues, which is home to Maitland FC. He said the amenities were “a major improvement that cater to all levels and abilities and will benefit local clubs like Maitland FC, now and into the future”.

The project has delivered new male and female changerooms designed to be more modern, gender inclusive and accessible. Council says the facilities will provide a safer and more suitable environment for athletes preparing for training and games, particularly as participation grows across different age groups and competitions.

As part of the works, drainage upgrades have also been completed at the ground. Council says the improvements will help operations at the facility, supporting more consistent use of the venue over the course of the season.

Mayor Penfold said Council was “proud to deliver improvements like these to support Maitland’s growing football community, so our athletes have the facilities they need to play at their best.” The upgraded amenities are expected to be in high demand next season as more players return to Cooks Square Park.

Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said the state government was pleased to back projects that make regional sporting facilities more accessible. “The NSW Government is pleased to support upgrades that make our regional sporting facilities more accessible to players of all ages, genders and abilities,” she said.

“Local sporting facilities are so central to our regional communities for fostering healthy habits and bringing people together to enjoy connection with one another,” Ms Moriarty said, highlighting the broader health and social benefits of investment in local grounds.

The new changerooms have also been designed to support the continued growth of women’s and girls’ sport. Council says female athletes will now have a safe and private space to prepare for games, addressing a long-running challenge at many older venues.

Federal Member for Paterson Meryl Swanson said she was proud to see the Albanese Government’s contribution delivered on the ground. “I’m proud to be part of an Albanese Labor Government that is delivering key local improvements like these new amenities at Cooks Square Park,” Ms Swanson said.

“This project was a Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program commitment of $595,878, and I’m so pleased to see it now come to life – supporting our local clubs, encouraging participation in sport, and strengthening our community,” she said. “This investment is about more than just bricks and mortar – it’s about building a future where everyone, especially women and girls, feel welcome and supported in sport.”

Maitland City Council acknowledged the extended time it has taken to complete the project and thanked Maitland FC and the wider community for their patience during construction. Further information on recent upgrades at Cooks Square Park is available on Council’s website.