Close to $1 million will be spent on building light towers at Jim McConville oval in Alice Springs, the NT government has said.

NT Infrastructure Minister Bill Yan said a $903,923 contract had been awarded to Harrison Enterprises to design an install the lights at Jim McConville oval , in a collaborative effort between the Alice Springs Town Council and the government.

The Gillern oval is used year round for cricket and Australian rules football, and is also used by school groups, and for junior sport.

Mr Yan said the initiative was part of the CLP government’s broader commitment, made during the election campaign, to rejuvenate the distinctive lifestyle of the Territory.

“Getting kids into sport is one of the best ways to keep them from turning to a life of crime,” Mr Yan said.

“Our plan for new and improved sporting facilities will help restore liveability for families, keeping them in Alice Springs and attracting new families and essential workers to the town.”

“The CLP Government is determined to make Alice Springs once again a great place to live, work and invest.”

Mr Yan said the the lights were expected to be finished in the first quarter of next year.