The $7 million cash injection comes with the proviso the Warrnambool City Council delivers plans for design works within the next six weeks.

The council was allocated $100,000 from the state government in December last year to complete designs.

The bold announcement by Mr Purcell comes after a renewed push to upgrade the ailing sporting facility. 

It is one of the city council’s priority projects for state government funding.

Mr Purcell said it was critical the report was finished.

“Sporting facilities like Reid Oval are the heart of regional communities and we have been actively lobbying and working with the government to secure $7 million in funding during this term of government,” he said.

“This commitment is not something I have made lightly but the council needs to do its bit to ensure I can deliver for the people of south-west Victoria.”

Warrnambool City Council chief executive officer Bruce Anson said the council was pleased to have the support of Mr Purcell on the Reid Oval project.

“Council will continue to work with Mr Purcell and other key stakeholders to attract funding to support this high priority community project,” he said.

“Council had allocated $100,000 in its 201718 budget to develop plans for Reid Oval and was delighted with the Victorian Government commitment to provide a matching amount for project development.

“Once the state funding became available in December last year, council began planning work.”

Mr Anson said the task now underway was the development of a business case to support funding for the project.

“The business case will include updated information around the infrastructure required including oval surface and lighting upgrades; updated change rooms and other facilities that will meet 21st century expectations including demand around female participation in sport,” Mr Anson said.

“Council expects this work to be finished by the end of July. It will then be presented to the Victorian Government for funding consideration.” 

Warrnambool’s Mike Neoh started a petition for the oval upgrades, garnering 750 signatures.

“I’m cautiously optimistic, but there are still a few questions to be answered,” Mr Neoh said.

“I’m hoping that its a rock-solid commitment if council facilitates the business study.

“Secondly I think it’s a bit premature to be throwing the amount around until the business study is completed.”