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City of Whittlesea, located in Melbourne's north, has opened its upgraded cricket nets at the Laurimar Recreation Reserve in Doreen.

 Work started at the end of January on a $200,000 project to dismantle and replace the existing nets at the southern end of the reserve, which is home to Laurimar Cricket Club.

The three-bay cricket net facility is now fully enclosed, reducing the risk of errant balls hitting passersby, properties or cars travelling along Painted Hills Road.

The nets were also reoriented to prevent batters looking into the afternoon sun when facing up to bowlers, while new matting and extended run-ups were installed.

Chair Administrator Lydia Wilson said it was pleasing to be able to partner with the State Government to deliver facilities that will benefit so many people adding "Sport is such an important part of life in our community and Council is committed to providing great facilities to encourage people of all ages to participate.

"These nets will not only provide players tied to the Laurimar Cricket Club with a place to train and improve their skills, but they will be available to the local community too."

Laurimar Cricket Club president Jason Merrett said the club's membership, which is currently more than 300, was expected to increase considerably in the coming years.

"We've got our senior and junior women's sides and we're expecting - and hoping - to grow our female membership substantially," he said.

"The quality of our facilities is a big factor in attracting and retaining players and these new nets will help us do that.

"We've got a whole new coaching staff and a number of new recruits and we're excited to train in these new nets."

The project was funded through a $100,000 contribution from the City of Whittlesea and $100,000 from Sport and Recreation Victoria.

Image. Credit: Laurimar Cricket Club 

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