STATUS: UPCOMING
The City of Launceston is progressing plans for a major redevelopment of the NTCA Sports Complex.
Since 2023, the City of Launceston has been working together with key stakeholders to develop the necessary documentation required to inform the redevelopment. External funding is required to deliver the construction phase of this project.
At the 2 October 2025 Council meeting, Council:
- Endorsed the NTCA architectural materials
- Progress detailed design for initial stages (1, 2 and ITEM C) and
- Authorised continued advocation for grants and other funding opportunities
Since this decision of Council, a Development Application has been lodged and is awaiting advertising. The detailed design work has progressed and advocacy continues.
The NTCA sports complex is steeped in history as Australia’s oldest first-class cricket ground and a long-standing multi-use sporting venue. In March 1850, the Launceston Cricket Club accepted a challenge from the Melbourne Cricket Club, with the match played in February 1851. Launceston won by three wickets, and the match is recognised as the first first-class cricket match played in Australia. The ground has continued to host significant sporting moments, including a record crowd of 7,500 spectators in 1938 for a match between Tasmania and the Australian Cricket Team, featuring several renowned players, including Sir Donald Bradman.
The proposed redevelopment of the sports complex will revitalise the sporting and recreational facilities for clubs and the wider community. The project will support sporting, social, and economic development by providing a joint-use community sports facility that addresses the needs of all sporting clubs and users of the site, the local government area, surrounding towns, and visitors to the northern Tasmania region.
The development will also protect, enhance and celebrate the heritage values of the site and importantly; enable broader community access to this historic site.
Work continues in the development of the detailed design work, and this process is forecast for completion in mid-2026 and advocacy efforts will continue.