Lilydale & Yarra Ranges Little Athletics Centre head coach Brendan Dixon wants to create a synthetic running track at Morrison Reserve.

Yarra Ranges councillors endorsed a feasibility study

into the Morrison Reserve athletics facility at the council meeting last Tuesday. The $5.4 million project will need both state and federal government funding.

The first $1.76 million stage includes design of the track, pavilion, car park and entrance road as well as construction of track and field infrastructure.

Mr Dixon said the existing grass track used by school groups, sporting clubs and the 250 little athletics members was unsafe and unreliable.

"It's frustrating especially when it gets a bit of weather on it and the kids are slipping over and getting hurt.

"We're hoping to start a senior club...a lot of the kids here don't go on with it because they have to drive out of the region to compete at a senior level."

Billanook Ward councillor Tim Heenan is keen to set up a regional facility for children across the shire.

Sports Minister James Merlino encouraged the council to identify the project as a priority and lodge an application on behalf of the community.

"I'm aware of plans to develop Morrison Reserve to ensure clubs like the Lilydale & Yarra Ranges Little Athletics Centre can continue to grow and provide sporting opportunities for our community.

"State Government funding for community facilities such as a new athletics track is available."