An opening date — labelled ambitious — has been announced for the rebuilt Roxburgh Entertainment Centre.
A statement released by the Central Otago District Council yesterday stated it was hoped to have the centre open in July 2028.
The rebuild will be fully funded by insurance — $6.4 million — and marks a significant step forward for the Teviot Valley community, which has rallied behind the restoration of the cherished local facility.
The Teviot Valley Community Board will appoint a steering group to guide the project through its design and construction phases.
The Central Otago District Council has delegated authority to the community board to appoint up to four external stakeholders to the group, and is also exploring the inclusion of an appointed councillor representative.
The community board met earlier this month to discuss how to best fill the four seats, with plans to advertise and invite expressions of interest from local residents and groups.
The group will be drawn from key stakeholders including Roxburgh Entertainment Centre Improvement and Promotions, Roxburgh Musical Society, Roxburgh Brass Band, and other community representatives.
The council’s property and facilities officer for Vincent and Teviot Valley, Bex Snape, said the rebuild was ambitious in scope and timeline.
"Having a team that brings together local knowledge, experience and passion will be essential.
"This decision reflects the community’s desire to maintain vibrancy and positivity while the centre rebuild is under way."
Planning was already under way for procurement, design, and community engagement phases.
Specialist consultants including Origin Consultants and Heritage NZ have been engaged to manage the historical and archaeological requirements of the site.
Council community experience group manager David Scoones said the entertainment centre had "long been a hub for arts, culture and community activity".
"This project is about restoring and enhancing that role, ensuring the centre continues to serve future generations."
Meanwhile, the community board has approved a change in the use of a previously allocated $2967 promotions fund.
Originally intended for lightboxes on the entertainment centre, the funds will instead be used to buy promotional street banners for Roxburgh’s main street — a move aimed at keeping community morale high as the rebuild progresses.— APL
