East Fremantle’s community park and football facility, a $32 million project, has become a financial challenge for the Town of East Fremantle. The newly revamped precinct, named East Fremantle Community Park, was designed to be a self-sustaining space for the council and the community. However, the latest financial projections indicate a net loss of $360,000 in the coming year, necessitating ratepayer subsidies to cover operational costs.
The park features Carnaby’s Cafe, the B-Active gym, and various hireable spaces managed by Belgravia Leisure under a five-year contract. Despite the council’s expectation of a cost-neutral operation, a recent business plan outlined a forecasted operating deficit of $367,891. To offset this shortfall, the council approved a 4.5% rates increase for the upcoming year.
While the park’s revenue is projected to cover most expenses for the current year, outstanding payments to Belgravia under the management agreement pose a financial challenge. The council aims for the park’s operations to be self-sustaining without relying on general funds, aligning with the long-term financial plan that did not anticipate ongoing deficits.
Delays in bringing WAFL football back to East Fremantle last season were attributed to turf issues and lease negotiations between the Sharks and the council. However, this season marks the return of games and training at the newly named Good Grocer Park. As part of the agreement with Belgravia, WAFL players have complimentary access to the gym, fostering community engagement and athlete support.
Notably, Good Grocer Park stands out as the only unfenced WAFL facility, allowing spectators to enjoy top-tier football at no cost. Belgravia has committed to forgoing its management fee and potential bonuses if financial targets are not met, demonstrating a shared responsibility in maintaining budgetary discipline.
Furthermore, the council retains the authority to request cost-cutting measures from Belgravia, such as adjusting cafe hours or gym staffing, should financial goals not be achieved throughout the fiscal year. This collaborative approach underscores the commitment to ensuring the sustainability and success of the East Fremantle Community Park.
In conclusion, the financial challenges facing the new sports and leisure precinct in East Fremantle highlight the complexities of managing large-scale community projects. As the council navigates the budgetary implications of this venture, ongoing collaboration with Belgravia and a focus on cost-effective strategies will be crucial in achieving long-term financial stability for the benefit of ratepayers and the community at large.
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