Sports resources: Study sought on upgrading facilities

Waitaki district sports facilities could undergo their first major transformation in about 40 years if the Waitaki District Council decides to carry out a feasibility study into their future.

The study could lead to development of a modern sporting centre at Centennial Park and its Whitestone Contracting stadium, making it the sporting headquarters for the district.

North Otago Rugby Union chief executive Colin Jackson described facilities at Centennial Park as "embarrassing".

Yesterday, the council's corporate services committee recommended the council contribute $20,000 towards a feasibility study, which could cost up to $34,000.

"It is about all sports and recreation in North Otago, not just about rugby," Jackson told the committee.

Sporting facilities in North Otago were falling behind other areas.

"We have a responsibility to provide those facilities for our children," he said.

Sport Otago Waitaki co-ordinator Graham Johnston said there was great potential to attract sporting events to Oamaru because of its location in the South Island, but facilities were not up to standard.

Cr Peter Garvan was concerned at the lack of information about how much any redevelopment would cost.

Corporate services manager Stephen Halliwell said the feasibility study would provide a development plan for applications for funding from other sources, including the Lotteries Board community facilities fund for projects up to $1 million.

The council had already provided in future budgets funding of $300,000 to $400,000 from a number of sources.

Hockey needed better facilities to stage international games, while rugby and cricket were struggling to meet national standards.

An office was being sought to house sports professionals employed in the district to share resources, while security needed improving and rugby was proposing lights for night games.

Another proposal included building a large indoor stadium, he said.

Property and parks contracts officer Jane Matchett said lack of - and ageing of - existing facilities was now being recognised, along with the inability to meet the modern uses and requirements.

These problems were further amplified when coupled with the potential to attract sports events and attract people to the district.

There was a greater need to "share, link and collaborate" to get the best "bang for the buck" from facilities, she said.

A feasibility study would: look at the proposed development; how it related to users' needs; details of key resources including personnel and physical resources; indicate operating facts and figures; incorporate funding requirements; and cover the day-to-day operation.

The study would identify and prioritise development to host local, premier sports and cultural events.

david.bruce@odt.co.nz