Norman Griffiths Oval Update
- Tim Wootton
- Apr 16
- 3 min read
April 26
Ku-ring-gai Council has provided a further update on the Norman Griffiths Oval redevelopment, including a revised timeline and progress on key project elements.
revised timeline and progress on key project elements.
Project Overview
Council confirmed in September 2025 that the project will be completed with a synthetic turf playing surface.
The full upgrade includes:
Synthetic playing field with a 2.4ML underground stormwater detention system
New field lighting
Fencing and pathways
Landscaping works
Electronic scoreboard
Replacement of the sewer main beneath the site
Current Status
The project is currently in the design, approvals and procurement phase, with construction yet to recommence.
Council has engaged NSW Public Works to provide independent project assurance, and additional work has been required to finalise key elements of the design — particularly around stormwater management and environmental controls.
Recent Progress
Since the previous update, Council has advised that the following work has been undertaken:
NSW Public Works appointed to provide independent oversight
Design review of the stormwater detention system
Review of synthetic turf specifications
Approval received from Sydney Water for sewer main replacement
Tender process commenced for sewer works
Environmental documentation updated and to be publicly exhibited
Following the transition from the previous contractor, Council has also undertaken works to secure and stabilise the site.
Site Management & Environmental Controls
Significant improvements have been made to environmental management, including:
Enhanced stormwater capture, storage and treatment systems
Improved erosion and sediment controls in line with EPA requirements
Reduced need to remove water from site during heavy rain events
The site is monitored daily for environmental compliance, safety and cleanliness.
During rainfall, water is stored, treated, tested and only released once it meets strict EPA standards.
Water Quality Monitoring
Stormwater released from the site must meet EPA guidelines, including:
pH: 6.5 – 8.3
Turbidity: less than 30 NTU
Salinity: less than 1.8
No visible pollutants
Water quality in Quarry Creek continues to be independently monitored, with results published by Council.
It is also important to note that stormwater entering Quarry Creek comes from the broader catchment area, not just the construction site.
Updated Delivery Timeline
Council has outlined the following indicative program:
Design & Approvals
Design completion: June 2026
Environmental (REF) approval: June 2026
Sydney Water approvals: completed February 2026
Procurement & Preparation
Sewer main upgrade works: through to September 2026
Main construction tender: July 2026
Council approval to award contract: August 2026
Construction & Access
Construction completion: February 2027
Field open for community use: February 2027
Final Completion
Full project completion (including contingency): May 2027
Key Considerations
Council has advised that the program includes limited contingency, and a number of factors may still impact delivery, including:
Contractor availability
Supply chain delays
Environmental approvals
Weather conditions
The project remains technically complex, particularly due to stormwater management requirements and the proximity to Quarry Creek.
What This Means
The project has now moved from a paused and uncertain position to a more structured and independently reviewed program. However, additional design and approval work has extended the overall timeline.
Construction is now expected to recommence later in 2026, with the field anticipated to return to use in early to mid 2027.
From the Club
We know how important Norman Griffiths Oval is to our players, families and the broader community, and we share the frustration around the delays.
It is encouraging to see progress being made and a clearer pathway to completion now in place. We will continue to keep our members updated as further information becomes available.