User groups yesterday said the redevelopment had transformed the venue into one of regional Australia’s best.

City of Greater Bendigo Mayor Kevin Gibbins said the project was expected to cost $2.2 million, but had been finished with a price tag of between $2.5 million and $3 million.

He said the increased cost was due to several upgrades of the initial plans.

The redevelopment includes a shade canopy, grassed terraces, a new pavilion with change rooms, toilets, administration areas, meeting and kitchen facilities, and new toilets.

“We’ve achieved a fantastic outcome for a venue that is going to be used very heavily in the future,” said Cr Gibbins.

“The Tom Flood Sports Centre is an absolute premier venue in this city.”

Mr Gibbins said the Gaol Road entrance would be upgraded and a large sign identifying the venue may be erected in future.

State Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan said the centre had a great history, but had been developed to ensure it could cope with the needs of the future.

“We’ve seen, in recent years in particular, the use of this venue has just grown and grown.

“We needed to make sure the facility catered to the needs of the people who use the Tom Flood Sports Centre.”

State Member for Bendigo West Bob Cameron said the redeveloped centre added to Bendigo’s reputation as a city filled with top-class sports venues.

He said he was glad speculation the new hospital would be built on the Tom Flood site had proved unfounded.

“The Tom Flood Sports Centre really does add to a fantastic collection of sports facilities in Bendigo that Bendigonians should be really proud of,” Mr Cameron said.

Bendigo International Madison chairman Warren Sinnott praised council and the State Government for listening to user groups about the need for upgrades at the centre.

“I think today the Tom Flood Sports Centre can be described as the best outdoor multi-purpose venue in regional Victoria, if not Australia.”