Report to Council of the Parks and Recreation Committee 13 August 1997

27. 8. 97

PARKS AND RECREATION COMMITTEE

13 AUGUST 1997

A meeting of the Parks and Recreation Committee
was held on Wednesday 13 August 1997 at 4.00 pm

PRESENT:

Councillor Gordon Freeman (Chairman), Councillors Carole Anderton, Graham Berry, David Buist, Graham Condon, David Cox, Ishwar Ganda and Gail Sheriff.

APOLOGIES:

Apologies for lateness were received and accepted from Councillors David Buist and Graham Condon.

Councillor Buist arrived at 4.30 pm and was present for all clauses except clauses 2, 10 and 11.

Councillor Condon arrived at 4.40 pm and was present for all clauses except clauses 2, 10, 11 and 13.

The Committee reports that:

PART A - MATTERS REQUIRING A COUNCIL DECISION

1. "NATIONS IN BLOOM 97" RR 5828

Officer responsible	Author
Parks Manager	Parks Manager
Corporate Plan Output: Information and Advice, Education/Promotion

The purpose of this report is to inform Councillors of the "Nations in Bloom" competition, Christchurch's involvement and success in this and to seek support for representation at the final presentation of awards.

"Nations in Bloom" is a new international competition which has been developed by the International Federation of Park and Recreation Administration (IFPRA). The aim of the competition is to recognise and encourage excellence in the management of the urban landscape by municipalities including landscape enhancement, heritage management, environmentally sensitive practices, community involvement and planning for the future.

The Parks Unit, on behalf of the Council, prepared an initial Christchurch submission for this competition comprising a full colour professionally formated booklet of some 4000 words and 20 photographs highlighting various city achievements within the parameters outlined above. A copy of the submission is laid on the table.

Advice has recently been received that Christchurch has been successful in gaining a place in the finals of this competition. Gaining finalist status is in itself a significant achievement and irrespective of the final outcome, has considerable publicity potential and can only enhance the city's standing both nationally and internationally, adding to the various awards the city has already gained in recent years.

The next and final phase of the competition comprises a verbal presentation which may include the use of video and 35mm slides by up to two presenters from each municipality finalist. These final presentations are to be held in Madrid, Spain, on 3 and 4 October next, with the actual Awards Ceremony held on Monday 6 October. This coincides with the start of the IFPRA Europe Congress being held at the same venue.

To further explain, IFPRA, established in 1957, is a non-profit making organisation with headquarters in the United Kingdom. It maintains contacts throughout the world with national professional bodies representing parks, recreation, amenity, cultural, leisure and related services. Over forty nations are represented within IFPRA.

The Federation's aims and objectives include the advancement of parks, and other services mentioned above through representation and the dissemination of information, the promotion of relevant research, the promotion of the conservation ethic, the efficient use of resources and various other initiatives aimed at maintaining acceptable standards and practices throughout the parks and recreation industry.

IFPRA congresses comprise a full International and two Regional Sector congresses, Europe and Asia/Pacific each of which is held in three yearly cycles, (the next International congress is being held in 1998 at Melbourne).

The Nations in Bloom competition is entirely in accord with the aims of the Federation and by combining the competition with a congress, maximum benefits in terms of exposure of the competing municipalities and the obtaining and sharing of relevant parks and related knowledge and experience at the international level can be achieved.

In order to respond appropriately to the honour of gaining finalist status in this competition it is considered important that Christchurch is represented at both the `Nations in Bloom' final awards and also at the associated IFPRA Europe Congress. The duration of the two events is Friday 3 October to Friday 10 October.

It so happens that the Parks Consultant, Neiel Drain, has for some time been planning a visit accompanied by his wife, to Europe including Spain in September/October this year. Mr Drain would be happy to adjust his travel arrangements to coincide with the `Nations in Bloom' awards and represent or assist in representing Christchurch at this important occasion. It would seem logical to accept this offer and particularly in light of the fact Mr Drain undertook the research and compilation of the information for our `Nations in Bloom' entry submission and was responsible for overseeing the entire project through to its completion. The estimated travel and associated costs are as follows:

Staff Member	$NZ
Hotel Accommodation	$1,700
Registration (includes partner)	$1,680
Local travel/incidentals	$500
		$3,880
Elected Member
Hotel Accommodation	$1,600
Registration	$900
Local travel/incidentals	$500
International Air Travel	$6,000
		$9,000
Less Refunds from "Nations in Bloom 97"
Contribution to Air Travel	-$1,200
Four nights accommodation, Madrid	-$800
		$2,000

It should also be noted that the `Nations in Bloom' competition rules allow for up to two presenters to participate at the final presentation and furthermore the organisers are offering up to 500 sterling towards the cost of an economy class air fare and free accommodation together with breakfast for one representative for the nights of 3, 4, 5 and 6 October.

Other details of both the Nations in Bloom competition, including a list of the finalists, together with information on the IFPRA Europe Congress, are tabled.

Recommendation:

1. That the Chairman of the Parks and Recreation Committee represent the Council at the Nations in Bloom Awards Ceremony and the associated IFPRA Europe Congress.

2. That Mr Drain's offer to represent Christchurch at the Nations in Bloom presentations and awards be accepted.

2. HILLARY COMMISSION DRAFT STRATEGIC PLAN "MOVING A NATION" RR 5860

The Leisure and Community Services Manager reported that the Hillary Commission's Draft Strategic Plan - Moving a Nation had been released for public comment.

Submissions on the draft plan close on Monday 8 September 1997.

The Committee resolved that a special meeting be held on Thursday 28 August to consider the Council's response to the discussion document.

Recommendation:

That the Parks and Recreation Committee be authorised to respond to the Strategic Plan and forward the submissions to the Hillary Commission by 8 September 1997.

3. HILLSBOROUGH DOMAIN - LANDSCAPE PROPOSALS RR 5673

Officer responsible	Author
Parks Manager	Brent Smith - Area Parks Officer
Corporate Plan Output: Parks Plans and Other Policy Statements 9.4. text 11

The purpose of this report is to seek approval for the proposed landscape development for Hillsborough Domain. A copy of this report was submitted to the Spreydon/Heathcote Community Board for information and comment.

CONSULTATION PROCESS

In March 1997, the Spreydon/Heathcote Community Board approved the proposed landscape development plan for distribution and comment. Copies of the plan were erected on the Opawa Road and Bishopsworth Street frontages of the park, and on the noticeboard at the St Martins Supermarket.

FEEDBACK

A total of 49 replies were received following the distribution of the public information leaflets. Responses were received from the Hillsborough Residents' Association, six sporting bodies and 42 local residents.

A wide variety of issues were raised in these replies, together with some very constructive comments and suggestions for minor alterations.

PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS

The Hillsborough Domain is zoned Open Space 2 in the City Plan. The zone description includes tennis courts as being common in this zone.

In order for a tennis court, defined as an impervious surface in the City Plan, to be a permitted activity in an Open Space 2 zone it must comply with all the open space development standards under clause 2.2, the open space community standards under clause 2.3, and the open space critical standards under clause 2.4.

The only clause that has an effect is clause 2.2.5 - Visual Amenities under the Development Standards.

"2.2.5.(a) Open Space 2, 3A and 3B Zones.

Where buildings and/or areas of impervious surfaces are located within 20m of a road boundary or zone boundary, the site shall be planted for a minimum depth of 3m from these boundaries, with trees or shrubs capable of reaching a height of at least 1.8m at maturity."

The landscape development proposal has taken these requirements into account and allowed for screen planting around the proposed court.

AVAILABLE FUNDING

Current funding available for these development proposals is as follows:

Tennis courts	$25,000	1997/98
Sportsfield Relevel and Drainage	$60,000	1998/99
Sportsfield Automatic Irrigation	$25,000	1998/99
Waterway Enhancement Work	in conjunction with above work(funded by Water Services)

Installation of the playground, path, seats, toilet block and any remaining planting will be actioned as funding becomes available.

PARKS UNIT PERSPECTIVE

The Parks Unit supports the proposed development, as it substantially increases the usage of the Hillsborough Domain, by catering for a much greater proportion of the community, yet does not detract from the overall open character of the park.

SUMMARY

The comments and suggestions received have been accommodation where possible. A copy of the landscape plan is attached.

The minor alterations required to be made to sportsfield placement, not only allows the domain to be visually enhanced, but will also provide room for the much needed community recreation facilities. These facilities, along with the programmed drainage work will ensure that the Hillsborough Domain can become a year round community focal point.

The Spreydon/Heathcote Community Board supported the above proposal at its August meeting.

Recommendation:	That the landscape proposal for Hillsborough Domain be approved, subject to the following amendments:
	The Water Services Unit proceeding with the waterway enhancement trial. The play equipment being sited to the north side of the domain under the shade trees. The proposed toilet block being attached to the existing changing sheds. Pathway being installed from Opawa Road to Bishopsworth Street leading past the changing sheds/toilets and along the South side of the fields.

4. EXTENSION TO HORNBY CYCLING CLUB CLUBROOMS RR 5764

Officer responsible	Author
Parks Manager	Suzanne Weld, Parks Planner
Corporate Plan Output: Consents and Applications

The purpose of this report is to gain approval from the Council for the Hornby Cycling Club to extend its clubrooms and lease area within Denton Park. The report has been referred to the Riccarton/Wigram Community Board for information.

INTRODUCTION

The Hornby Cycling Club has approached the Parks Unit for assistance in extending its clubrooms on Denton Park so that the club can provide more satisfactory toilet facilities. At present club members and patrons of the clubrooms use toilets that exist under the grandstand of the velodrome which is both unsafe and undesirable.

The Cycling Club has worked with the Parks Unit to develop an addition to the clubrooms which is acceptable to both parties.

THE PROPOSAL

The Hornby Cycling Club proposes to build a new addition on to the south side of its existing building. The addition will be the same height as the existing building and extend into the existing garden bed by 4.8 x 6.0m. A plan of the proposed extension is tabled. The Cycling Club intends to use the ground floor for storage and the first floor level for toilet and shower facilities. The new amenities will be at the same level as the existing bar and kitchen facilities, making the clubrooms more acceptable for social events. An extension to its current lease will have to be negotiated as the park is held under the Reserves Act 1977. The Council's power to approve a new addition is contained in Section 54(1)(b) of the Act, which authorises the administering authority (the Council), with the prior consent of the Minister of Conservation, to:

"(b) Lease to any voluntary organisation part of the reserve for the erection of stands, pavilions, gymnasiums, and, subject to sections 44 and 45 of this Act, other buildings and structures associated with and necessary for the use of the reserve for outdoor sports, games or other recreational activities, or lease to any voluntary organisation any such stands, pavilions, gymnasiums, and, subject to section 44 of this Act, other buildings or structures already on the reserve, which lease shall be subject to the further provisions set out in the First Schedule to this Act relating to leases of recreation reserves issued pursuant to this paragraph.

Provided that a lease granted by the administering body may, with the prior consent of the Minister given on the ground that he considers it to be in the public interest, to permit the erection of buildings and structures for sports, games, or public recreation not directly associated with outdoor recreation."

The Parks Unit initially had some concerns about the implications of this extension, mainly relating to the safety of pedestrians and cyclists travelling along the path south of the building.

Denton Park has been identified as one of Christchurch's less safe parks and staff believed that the extension would reduce visibility along the path adjacent to the building and a further `stranger-danger corner" west of the addition.

Parks staff believe that if the path were realigned and the associated planting carefully designed, the "stranger-danger" situation would in fact be improved. The Hornby Cycling Club has agreed to contribute to some of the cost of realigning the path and associated planting. The Parks Unit would carry out the work and meet the remaining costs in order to make this part of the park safer.

A design brief has already been sent to the City Design unit to detail this area. In addition to the area immediately around the proposed addition, specimen trees with low planting have been requested along the southern wall of the grandstand to reduce its impact upon the park.

The Hornby Cycling Club has also conveyed its intention in the future to cover part of the grandstand to provide all weather viewing of cycle events. They would like to receive approval in principle for this proposal so they can plan for this further.

The application was considered and supported by the Riccarton/Wigram Community Board at its August meeting.

At the request of the Committee, the Parks Manager undertook to arrange for the paraplegic access to the Denton Park velodrome to be improved.

Recommendation:

That the Hornby Cycling Club's application to extend its existing leased area by up to 30.0 m² and to carry out building extensions be approved subject to the following conditions:

The Hornby Cycling Club obtaining the necessary resource consent and a building consent for the extension and the internal alterations to the building.

In the event of a resource consent being required and this being non-notified the proposal being publicly advertised pursuant to the Reserves Act 1977.

The consent of the Minister of Conservation for the lease extension being obtained prior to any work commencing.

The Property Manager draw up an amended lease agreement between the club and the Council to the Parks Manager's satisfaction once consent from the Minister of Conservation has been obtained.

Design of the building and exterior colour scheme being to the Park Manager's satisfaction.

Any landscaping and path works required by the Parks Manager being installed at the club's cost.

The contractor undertaking the construction paying a $2,000 bond prior to commencing of work.

All costs associated with this application being the responsibility of the club and all contractors involved in the development are to carry out construction with the Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992.

Approval to lapse if the development is not completed within two years of final approval being granted.

That the proposal to cover in part of the grandstand at a later date be approved in principle.

HORNBY DOMAIN BOWLING CLUB BUILDING EXTENSION HORNBY DOMAIN

RR 5714

Officer responsible	Author
Parks Manager	Brent Smith, Area Parks Officer
Corporate Plan Output: Parks Consents and Applications 9.4 text 14

The purpose of this report is to seek approval, under Section 54 1B of the Reserves Act 1977, for the Hornby Domain Bowling Club to extend its clubrooms and lease area within Hornby Domain. The report has been referred to the Riccarton/Wigram Community Board for information.

BACKGROUND

The Hornby Domain Bowling Club currently has its greens and clubrooms situated in the Hornby Domain, and has occupied the site since 1918. Over the years, as club membership grew, various additions and alterations have been made to the club's facilities.

Beginning with a single green, it was not until the 1950s that more land was purchased, enabling the club to erect its current rooms. Later again, with further land purchases, and the closure of the old Council nursery at the rear of the domain, a second green was built in the early 1990s. This continued growth in membership (now exceeding 100 members) has now placed a strain on the accommodation, hence this application to extend the clubrooms.

The clubrooms are not only used by the Bowling Club. Both the Hornby Tennis Club and the Hornby Hockey Club have used the facilities for a number of years and will continue to do so.

THE PROPOSAL

The proposal is to extend the existing floor space by 53%. In addition, the re-siting of facilities within the building, upgrading to comply fully with current building code requirements and to improve disability access will be undertaken. The new layout will be more user friendly and relieve congestion around the entranceways, making the whole facility much safer and accessible for disabled persons. A plan showing the proposed alterations is tabled.

The Environmental Policy and Planning Unit has commented that although the incremental extension of the facility will affect some parking spaces, it does not further reduce the existing available public space. With the recent addition of car parking adjacent to the No 2 green, the reduction of four car parks by the clubrooms is not an issue.

The Property Unit has commented that the Hornby Domain is classified as a Recreation Reserve under the Reserves Act 1977, and is covered by a Management Plan prepared originally by the Paparua County Council which is still operational. Under the provisions of the plan the sport of bowls is a recognised activity. The proposed building extension is not in conflict with the plan objectives which among other issues provide for building extensions if they do not reduce the effectiveness of the existing recreational open space. The current lease runs until 30 June 2053.

If the proposed extension is approved a variation to the existing lease under the provisions of the Reserves Act 1977 section 54 1(B) will be necessary. This section of the Act authorises the administering authority (the Council), with the prior consent of the Minister of Conservation, to:

Lease to any voluntary organisation part of the reserve for the erection of stands, pavilions, gymnasiums, and, subject to sections 44 and 45 of this Act, other buildings and structures associated with and necessary for the use of the reserve for outdoor sports, games, or other recreational activities, or lease to any voluntary organisation any such stands, pavilions, gymnasiums, and subject to section 44 of this Act, other buildings or structures already on the reserve, which lease shall be subject to the further provisions set out in the First Schedule to this Act relating to leases of recreation reserves issued pursuant to this paragraph:

Provided that a lease granted by the administering body may, with the prior consent of the Minister given on the ground that he considers it to be in the public interest, permit the erection of buildings and structures for sports, games, or public recreation not directly associated with outdoor recreation.

The Parks Unit has commented that this Domain already has extensive buildings, so these incremental changes will not have any major impact.

The Parks Unit would support the proposal subject to the following conditions:

The consent of the Minister of Conservation being obtained.
The club obtaining relevant resource and building consents before work commences on the site.
The club agreeing to comply with all bylaws, regulations and statutes pertaining to the construction and operation of the building, including the Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992.
The exterior colour scheme for the proposed building being approved by the Parks Manager before construction commences.
Any landscaping around the building that is required by the Parks Manager being the club's responsibility.
Any trimming of existing trees close to the proposed site to be undertaken by the Council, with the costs to be met by the club.
The area being maintained in a safe, clean and tidy condition to the satisfaction of the Parks Manager or his designate at all times.
A bond of $2,000 to be paid to the Council prior to work commencing on-site. The bond, less any expenses incurred by the Council, will be refunded at the completion of the project.
A representative of the club contacting the Area Parks Officer Sockburn before commencing construction to ascertain the Council's requirements throughout the project.
Permission to undertake the proposed development to lapse if construction has not commenced within two years of obtaining Council permission.
All costs associated with this application and resulting development being paid for by the club.
As part of the lease extension process, this proposal being publicly advertised pursuant to the Reserves Act 1977.

The above report was considered by the Riccarton/Wigram Community Board at its August meeting. The Board endorsed the recommendation subject to condition 8 being varied to allow the club to obtain a bank guarantee or other written agreement in lieu of the $2,000 bond. The variation to this standard condition was sought on the basis that should the bowling club undertake the work itself, as contractor, the payment of a $2,000 cash bond would place financial hardship on the club.

The Committee did not support the Board's request to waive the bond on the grounds that this payment was necessary to protect the Council in the event of the project not being satisfactorily completed.

Recommendation:

That the proposed extension to the Hornby Domain Bowling Club's clubrooms and leased area within Hornby Domain be approved subject to the conditions recommended by the Parks Manager.
That the Parks Manager and the Property Manager be authorised to negotiate with the Hornby Domain Bowling Club the necessary lease extension to the satisfaction of all parties.

6. CAR PARKING HAGLEY PARK UNITED CAR PARK RR 5843

Officer responsible	Author
Parks Manager	Neiel Drain, Parks Consultant
Corporate Plan Output: Bylaw Enforcement Ranger Services

The purpose of this report is to seek support for the introduction of parking restrictions in the United Car Park off Riccarton Avenue which services the Botanic Gardens and North Hagley Park

BACKGROUND

While the issue has been raised on a number of occasions in the past, this report has been prompted by a letter of complaint to the Mayor in May of this year regarding the lack of parking for patrons attending an end of season function at the United Bowling Club.

There are 89 spaces in this car park and it is used principally by members of the United Tennis, Bowling and Croquet Clubs, visitors to the Botanic Gardens, a few members of Gardens staff and up to 20 cars of Christchurch Hospital staff.

In 1993 the Parks and Recreation Committee approved a 180 minute parking restriction Monday to Friday, 8.00 am to 6.00 pm, within the Oval and Canterbury Horticultural Centre car parks and in 1994 extended this restriction to the Armagh Car Park. This was because of people parking all day in these car parks and preventing use by bona fide park and Botanic Gardens users.

Parking restrictions for the United car park were also considered at this time but were felt to be undesirable in that they might have caused difficulties for these particular sports club users, when their events extended beyond three hours. Instead, signs welcoming "park users" were installed and letters outlining the purpose of the car park and the problems caused by the all day parking by hospital employees were sent to the hospital authorities. Despite these initiatives nothing has changed and the conclusion now reached is that the effect on the Clubs (and other park/Gardens users) of the present unrestricted parking are such as to justify restrictions being imposed. Furthermore, if at any time such as special events, club or similar users require an extension of the three hours, arrangements could be made to accommodate this.

Enforcement of the present parking restrictions is administered through the Council's Parking Unit which can readily be extended to the United Car Park.

The benefits of introducing a 180 minute parking restriction for the United Car Park would be threefold, ie it would:

Bring the car park into line with the other three car park sites in Hagley Park;
Discourage hospital staff from parking in the car park;
Provide equitable parking opportunity for legitimate users.

Recommendation:

That a P180 parking restriction be introduced in the Hagley Park United Car Park, the restriction to apply Monday to Friday from 8.00 am to 6.00 pm.
That the `United' sports clubs adjacent to the car park and the Christchurch Hospital be given at least one month's notice in writing of the proposed parking restrictions.
That approval be given for the Parks Unit to grant extension of the parking limit to bona fide users of the car park for special events and similar as required.

7. TAYLORS MISTAKE VALLEY - PROPOSAL TO REPLACE 11 kV OVERHEAD LINE WITH UNDERGROUND CABLE RR 5747

Officer responsible	Author
Parks Manager	Chris Freeman, Management Planning Officer
Corporate Plan Output: Consents and Applications

The purpose of this report is to update Councillors of recent progress in resolving a longstanding safety issue in Taylors Mistake Valley and to seek approval for Southpower to install an underground power cable in Taylors Mistake Reserve. The report has been referred to the Hagley/Ferrymead Community Board for information.

INTRODUCTION

In 1994 the issue of high tension wires being a danger to paragliders in the Taylors Mistake Valley was raised. The Hagley/Ferrymead Community Board resolved on 6 July 1994 to acknowledge the danger to paragliders and requested that Southpower clearly mark the lines.

Southpower responded to the Board indicating that it would cost $65,000 to mark the lines or $30,000 to underground the lines with one line remaining in the air. They suggested the Council could contribute $15,000 towards the cost. At a meeting on 7 September 1994 the Board resolved that the request for marking the lines be declined but that signs be located at the take-off point to indicate the presence of power lines in the flight path.

Southpower have approached the Parks Unit again regarding this matter and to seek approval for a new proposal.

The proposal Southpower wish to replace the 11 kV overhead line that spans the Taylors Mistake Valley with an underground cable. Southpower have instructed Connetics Ltd to investigate possible cable route options and carry out the required works should a satisfactory solution be found.

Southpower have been concerned for some time and fear greatly for the safety of paragliders who frequently fly down the valley often in a perpendicular direction to the line in question.

In view of this safety issue, Southpower are prepared to fund reasonable costs toward installing a suitable cable that would allow the line to be removed. The line in question is utilised to supply local distribution in the Godley Head area.

Southpower recommend the following approach.

The most economical and practical solution is to lay an 11 kV underground cable between Southpower's Drainage Board Substation CO12/7 (within Road Reserve at the Taylors Mistake Car Park), to a suitable termination pole position located near the southern boundary of Lot 3 DP 59234, as shown on the tabled aerial photograph.
The existing overhead line would be cut and swung over to the new pole position mentioned in item 1, which would cross Lot 1 DP 59234 as shown.
To achieve the work described in items 1 and 2, the proposed cable would need to pass through Reserve land. Although the exact cable route has not been determined by survey yet, access through Lot 1 DP 42746 and Lot 1 DP 52009, would be required.
In order to lay the proposed cable across Reserve land, Southpower would need to register a power cable easement in gross over the total route of the cable. This being over part Lot 1 42746 and part Lot 1 DP 52009.
Southpower would meet all reasonable survey and legal fees that are directly associated with the registration and creation of the easement.
The proposed cable route on our plan CN 2735 is subject to survey. Southpower would engage Kevin Blue (Christchurch City Council) for fixing the cable and creating and registering the easement.
The depth of the cable would be kept to a maximum so that any future redevelopment of the car park area does not expose the cable or make it vulnerable to damage.

Utility easements are permitted under Section 48(1) of the Reserves Act 1977 which states:

"... the administering body, with the approval of the Minister (of Conservation) and on such conditions as the Minister approves may grant rights of way and other easements over any part of the reserve for (inter alia):

(c) ... transmission of electric current for heating, lighting or power purposes ..."

As the reserve will not be materially altered or permanently damaged and public use of the reserve will be improved by the removal of overhead wires, the application will not need to be publicly advertised.

CONCLUSION

Southpower wishes to resolve this issue as soon as possible. The Parks Unit believes that their proposal will resolve a long standing safety issue and supports Southpower in their endeavours subject to the following conditions.

CONDITIONS

That an easement for electricity be permitted on Recreation Reserves Lot 1 DP 42746, 7,264 m² and Lot 1 DP 52009, 1.0234 ha as shown on Connetics plan CN2735 subject to the following conditions:

Where any repairs or maintenance to the electricity cable are required, restoration to the reserve being completed to the Parks Managers satisfaction.

The Parks Unit being absolved from any liability for damaging the electricity cable when carrying out its lawful activities in a responsible and workmanlike manner.

That the installation of the electricity cable and issuing of the easement be subject to the following terms:

The developers paying all costs incurred with the creation and registration of the easement, including survey and legal costs.

Restoration of the reserve being made to the satisfaction of the Parks Manager.

The payment of a fee for the easement being waived due to Southpower's contribution to public safety.

That the applicant gain the consent of the Minister of Conservation before any works are carried out on site. The applicant is to be responsible for all costs incurred in gaining this consent.
That the depth of the proposed cable be approved by the Parks Manager to ensure sufficient clearance is maintained below the proposed car park.
The proposal was unanimously endorsed by the Hagley/Ferrymead Community Board at its August meeting.

Recommendation:

That subject to conditions 1-5 above Southpower be granted an easement under Section 48 of the Reserves Act 1977 to lay an underground power cable in Taylors Mistake Reserve.

8. SPENCER PARK CAFE/BAR RR 5851

Officer responsible	Author
Parks Manager	Property Services Officer, Lewis Burn 3/7/70
Corporate Plan Output: Parks Unit - Leases and Consents

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this report is to obtain approval to negotiate a sale of the former staff house/shop building at Spencer Park to the lessee, Mr Inwood of Christchurch Holiday Parks Limited, who intends converting the building into a cafe/bar. A copy of this report will be referred to the Papanui/Shirley Community Board for their information. Valuation detail is given in the Public Excluded Section of this agenda.

BACKGROUND

At the May meeting of the Committee it was reported that Mr Inwood had confirmed his interest in purchasing the building in question and that staff would report back to the Committee following investigation of this proposal.

The Council's approval to lease the building to Mr Inwood's company, Christchurch Holiday Parks Limited, for a maximum term of 19 years for commercial use as a cafe/bar was conditional on consents being obtained under the Reserves Act, the Resource Management Act and the Building Act. The consent of the Minister of Conservation has been given to the lease and a notified Resource Consent has been granted to allow the establishment and operation of a licensed restaurant and bar (with an on-licence and off-licence). The approved liquor licence hours are Monday to Saturday 9.00 am to 12 midnight and Sundays 9.00 am to 12 midnight to persons present on the premises for the purpose of dining.

APPLICATION

Mr Inwood wishes to purchase the building and take a ground lease as opposed to co-ownership of the improvement which could present difficulties in the future with consent administration and future rental determination. Mr Inwood has apparently budgeted in excess of $200,000 to upgrade and convert the building as a complementary business to the adjacent motor camp of which he is the lessee. As yet a building consent has not been applied for and before finalising his plans for the conversion and the feasibility of this, Mr Inwood wanted to explore the question of ownership. If Mr Inwood owned the building outright this would remove any uncertainty as to each party's interest in the building.

The Council's policy is to sell property by public tender unless there is good reason for doing otherwise. In this case the property is a building asset of the Council and there already exists a contractual agreement to lease the asset to the applicant. There is good reason therefore to depart from this policy (should the policy include structures) in the event that the Council agrees to dispose of the building. Further the applicant the applicant has obtained the resource consent to operate the proposed business and it would unreasonable and impracticable to dispose of the building to any one else.

The Parks Manager advises that having carefully considered this issue his Unit would support the sale of the building with a ground lease that contained a condition that on termination of the lease the building be either removed by the lessee within a set timeframe or revert to the Council's ownership without compensation.

The Parks Manager has observed that proceeds from the sale of the building would assist funding an upgrade of the entrance to Seafield Park (former site of animal compound) particularly the provision of an information kiosk to the Park.

DESCRIPTION OF BUILDING

The existing premises comprises a single storey structure, which was originally utilised as a three bedroom residential dwelling with an attached shop, which was run in conjunction with the Spencer Park Motor Camp, as a small ice cream and confectionery outlet, together with the sale of milk and other everyday products.

The main building comprises a residential dwelling and the previous retail shop, a total floor area of 149m², with construction comprising corrugated iron roof, split stone exterior wall sheathing, concrete and timber floor, glazed timber exterior joinery, timber framed internal partitions and various Gilbraltar board internal linings.

ISSUES

Should the building be sold to the lessee then the Council would only be entitled to a land rental and not a share in the future returns from this business venture. Obtaining that share through rental provisions could however, through the term of the lease, prove to be a difficult and costly negotiation exercise with the return being lessened by the cost of hands on consent administration when improvement alteration/additions are proposed. A ground lease would clearly define the interest of each party in the business and allow the lessee to plan the development with a clearer idea of future overhead costs. The risk element to the Council is minimal with the lessee meeting all consent and development costs and the Council retaining control/ownership of the improved building in the event that the business fails or that the lease is terminated for whatever reason.

Recommendation:

That the Council authorise the Property Manager to commence negotiations with Mr Trevor Inwood for the sale of the former shop/house building at Spencer Park and a new ground lease document at a price and ground rental not less than the Council valuer's assessment given in the public excluded section of this report subject to the outcome of negotiations being reported back to the Parks and Recreation Committee for recommendation to the Council.

PART B - REPORTS FOR INFORMATION

9. DEPUTATIONS BY APPOINTMENT - AVONHEAD PARK CEMETERY

Mrs Kay Rainey, 131A McFaddens Road, addressed the Committee in support of the status quo in regard to the current policy relating to the erection of memorials in the landscaped section of the Avonhead Park Cemetery. Mrs Rainey submitted that in view of the commitments given to families of the deceased regarding the provision of memorials in this area that no change should be made and that financial considerations should not be an issue in determining the future policy.

10.

OUT OF SCHOOL RESEARCH STUDY -RESEARCH SUMMARY REPORT

RR 5295

The Committee received the report of the working party appointed to oversee a review of out of school care in Christchurch.

The report was also considered by the Community Services Committee and that Committee is making a number of specific recommendations to the present meeting in respect of the research results.

11.

BOTTLE LAKE FOREST PARK, CHANEYS FOREST AND KAINGA FOREST DRAFT MANAGEMENT PLAN

RR 5855

The Committee received a progress report from the Parks Manager on the preparation of the above management plan.

12. ITEM DEFERRED

12.1

Avonhead Park Cemetery - Request for Headstones in the Excluded Area

RR 5835

The Committee deferred consideration of the above report and appointed a Sub-Committee comprising the Chairman, Councillors Anderton, Berry and Sheriff to inspect the cemetery and report back to the Committee.

PART C - REPORT ON DELEGATED DECISIONS TAKEN BY THE COMMITTEE

13. BURWOOD PLUNKET - CLARE PARK RR 5669

The Parks Manager submitted a report recommending that part of Clare Park be classified as a local purpose (community buildings) reserve and the balance of the affected titled be classified as recreation reserve.

The Committee resolved that pursuant to Section 16 of the Reserves Act 1977, the Minister of Conservation be requested to classify the land described in the First Schedule local purpose (Community Buildings) reserve and the land described in the Second Schedule recreation reserve.

First Schedule

Parcel "A" on S2869 containing 1046m² approximately subject to survey being part Lot 1 DP 6339 being part of the land contained in CT 6B/785.

Second Schedule

Part Lot 1 DP 6339 containing 4.1890 ha approximately subject to survey being the balance of the land comprised in CT 6B/785.

14.

GUY FAWKES FIREWORKS EVENT

RR 5909

The Communications and Promotions Manager reported to the August meeting of the Committee drawing attention to a number of difficulties which had arisen regarding the use of the New Brighton Pier for the Guy Fawkes Fireworks event and suggesting that consideration be given to a change in venue.

The Committee appointed a sub-committee comprising the Chairman, Councillors Condon, Cox and Sheriff with power to act.

The sub-committee and the Mayor met with Council staff on Thursday 21 August. At the meeting assurances were given by staff that provided certain venue management and health and safety issues were addressed this year's event could be held at the New Brighton Pier. The two other obstacles to holding the event at the pier, identified in the staff report to the Parks and Recreation Committee, were:

High tide for the coastal area of New Brighton on 5 November has been confirmed as 9.35 pm.
A capital works project for the complete redesign of the road area directly in front of the Pier is scheduled for September to mid-December 1997.

With regard to the former issue, concerns had been raised by Coast Care staff about possible damage to dune planting resulting from public use of the sandhills for viewing the display. The Parks Manager, however, felt that such damage would be minimal and could be readily dealt with.

Insofar as the second issue is concerned, an assurance has been given by streetworks staff that the Marine Parade roads works can be programmed to ensure that no major construction is taking place at the beginning of November. While this may result in the project being completed later than scheduled, it will not have any cost implications.

Provision of $35,000 has been made in the current year for this event. Further funding of $9,800 will be required to meet the additional venue management costs referred to above. While these funds could be found from the special events vote in the Communications and Promotions Unit budget, the sub-committee considered that staff should endeavour to secure outside funding to offset the additional costs.

In light of the above and the success of last year's event the sub-committee unanimously agreed that the Guy Fawkes fireworks display should be established as a New Brighton event.

The Communications and Promotions Unit is holding discussions with the New Brighton District Business Association on the opportunities for enhancing the event and will report back to the Parks and Recreation Committee on the outcome of these discussions.

The sub-committee resolved:

That this year's Guy Fawkes fireworks event be held at the New Brighton Pier on 5 November 1997.
That expenditure not exceed $44,800.
That an application be submitted to the Community Trust for a grant towards the cost of staging this year's event.
That the Communications and Promotions Manager explore sponsorship opportunities for this year's event.

15. RESOLUTION TO EXCLUDE THE PUBLIC

The Committee resolved that the draft resolution to exclude the public set out on page 35 of the agenda be adopted.

CONSIDERED THIS 27TH DAY OF AUGUST 1997

MAYOR

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