A statement released on behalf of the Save Wanaka Lakefront Reserves Trust by spokesman David Jongsma said the trust was saddened by the decision to allow the facility to be built on a popular and undeveloped section of lakefront in Roys Bay.
‘‘We believe the 420sq m building is completely out of context with the lakefront reserve and the style and colour will stand out rather than blend in with the environment.’’
The decision by the Environment Court not to uphold their appeal against resource consent granted for the building more than a year ago was also ‘‘frustrating’’ to many Wanaka residents, Mr Jongsma said
‘‘Particularly when the Wanaka Watersports Facility Trust had stated there are other equally suitable sites, on far less environmentally sensitive areas, where this building, which is mainly for storage, could have been located.’’
The statement went on to criticise the Queenstown Lakes District Council and the Wanaka Community Board for supporting the construction project ‘‘when over 700 out of 1000 submissions opposed the building on the lakefront.’’
‘‘We will look through the decision and see if there are any grounds for appeal.’’
‘‘We can only hope there is somebody out there who is willing to finance an appeal should it be justified.’’
An Environment Court decision can be appealed only on errors in findings of law, not on any finding of fact.
