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26. 2. 97
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMITTEE
12 FEBRUARY 1997
A meeting of the Parks and Recreation Committee
was held on Wednesday 12 February 1997 at 4.00 pm
PRESENT: Councillor Gordon Freeman (Chairman),
Councillors Carole Anderton, David Buist,
Graham Condon, David Cox, Ishwar Ganda
and Gail Sheriff.
APOLOGIES: Apologies for absence were received and accepted from the Mayor and Councillor Graham Berry.
IN ATTENDANCE: Councillors Charles Manning and Ron Wright.
Councillor Sheriff retired at 5.45 pm and was present for all clauses except clauses 8, 15, 16.4, 16.5, 16.6 and 17.
Councillor Ganda retired at 6.00 pm and was present for all clauses except clause 15.
The Committee reports that:
PART A - MATTERS REQUIRING A COUNCIL DECISION
1. FENDALTON PARK CROQUET CLUB -
CLUBROOMS UPGRADE RR 4443
| Officer responsible | Author |
| Parks Manager | Rod Whearty |
| Corporate Plan Output: Consents and Applications |
The purpose of this report is to obtain Council approval for the Fendalton Park Croquet Club to replace its existing clubroom facilities within the area the club leases on Fendalton Park.
CLUB HISTORY AND BACKGROUND
Fendalton Park Croquet Club has been based on Fendalton Park since 1951 when the current wooden building was erected.
The Club has operated successfully out of the existing building since then. However the building is now at a stage where it is no longer economically viable to maintain it. A new building with better design and layout is required to reflect the changing needs and increased activity of the club.
The present membership of the club stands at 56 full members, two life members and seven associate members which the club advises is one of the largest in the South Island.
FACILITY USAGE
The club's croquet season runs from September to April with organised club games on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Inter-club matches are also hosted throughout the season on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays with other club matches taking place where and when greens are available.
In addition the club also hosts a number of Canterbury Croquet Association tournaments throughout the season and in the past has provided facilities for international players from England and Australia.
The facilities are now utilised 12 months of the year. During the winter off-season (April-September) 50 members take part in a Bridge Circle on Wednesdays and Saturdays and up to 40 members participate in mah-jong on Fridays. Some winter croquet is also played when ground conditions allow.
PROPOSED BUILDING
The new building (see tabled plans) is approximately the same size. However the siting is slightly altered to enable a better layout and usage of the area.
The building is to be constructed with permanent materials to reduce the maintenance component and has been designed to provide a visual appearance which complements the Park and its surrounds.
The Parks Unit has seen the plans of the proposed building and is happy with the design and layout.
CONSENTS AND APPROVALS
The club occupies 5,112m2 on Fendalton Park and has a 33 year lease covering this area. The lease does not expire until 2009.
Clause 7 of the lease requires the club to obtain Council approval prior to erecting any buildings or structures within the leased area.
The club recently obtained a Project Information Memorandum and the Council's planning staff have indicated that the club's proposal will require a resource consent, a building consent for the new building and a consent to demolish the old building. The club will not be able to commence any work until all the approvals have been granted.
The Parks Unit will also require the contractors undertaking the construction to pay a $2,000 bond while they have access over the Reserve to ensure the area is returned to its former condition and any damaged areas are restored.
CONCLUSION
The Parks Unit is comfortable with the club's current proposal. The club has been operating on the park for a number of years with few problems associated with their activities.
The only concern in recent times has been car parking in nearby Makora Street. However this was satisfactorily resolved with the formalising of the car park area at the rear of the Croquet Club and Bowling Club's leased area approximately two years ago.
Accordingly, the Parks Unit recommends that the club's application be approved subject to the necessary consents and approvals being obtained prior to work commencing.
The above proposal was considered and supported by the Fendalton/Waimairi Community Board at its meeting on 4 February 1997.
Recommendation: That the Fendalton Park Croquet Club's application to build a new clubroom within its leased area at Fendalton Park be approved subject to the following conditions.
1. The club obtaining a resource consent and building consent for the new construction.
2. A consent to demolish the old building being obtained.
3. The design of the building and the exterior colour scheme being the Parks Manager's satisfaction.
4. Any landscaping required by the Parks Manager being installed at the club's cost.
5. The contractor undertaking the construction pay a $2,000 bond prior to gaining site access.
6. All costs associated with this application being the responsibility of the club and all contractors involved in the development carrying out construction in accordance with the Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992.
7. The approval lapse if the development is not completed within two years of the final approval being granted.
2. HANSEN PARK - ST MARTINS ATHLETIC AND HARRIER CLUB
PROPOSED BUILDING EXTENSION rr 4493
| 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 Council approval (as landowner) for the proposed building extensions at Hansen Park by the St Martins Athletic and Harrier Club, which include a second storey over the existing building.
Background
The park is administered by the Christchurch City Council under the Transitional City Plan as an 02 reserve. The area that the clubroom is situated on is held pursuant to the Local Government Act. An amenities building incorporating changing facilities, public toilets, a workshop and a room set aside for the St Martins Athletic and Harrier Club Inc was built in 1985. The building was extended by the club in 1989.
At present, the club occupies a single room incorporated in the aforementioned amenities building on Hansen Park. The club membership is growing at a fast rate. The junior section of the club exceed 100 members on two nights a week, while the senior and veteran membership exceeds 200. The club is stretched for room in the present facilities on a club run day. A plan of the proposed extensions will be available at the meeting.
Some members may recall that after gaining support in September 1994 from the Spreydon/Heathcote Community Board and the Parks and Recreation Committee, full Council endorsed the proposal subject to the condition "that the application be advertised for comment in the community".
This was actioned by means of a letter-box drop in October 1994, and no objections were received. However, there was some concern over the area covered in the consultation.
In August 1995 the Spreydon/Heathcote Community Board further recommended to the Parks and Recreation Committee:
"That when final plans are received for the St Martins Athletic and Harrier Club's building project:
The above recommendation was adopted by the Council at its 23 August 1995 meeting.
Current Status
Final plans have now been received as part of the club's resource consent application RC960337. (The proposal has complied as a discretionary activity under the Proposed Plan.)
The further consultation requested by the Council was completed in November 1996, with the amended plans being distributed to the extended circulation area.
Consultation Results
Only one reply was received. This was from the Opawa-St Martins Residents Association, stating that it had "no objection to the proposed extension in principle as outlined in the plan. However the Association believes that criteria should be put in place to ensure that any hiring arrangements for functions etc should include a clause to avoid an excessive noise level to local residents". The Association also wishes to record its strong opposition to any further buildings being erected in Hansen Park as it feels this would be environmentally unacceptable.
The above proposal was considered and supported by the Spreydon/Heathcote Community Board at its meeting on 5 February 1997.
Recommendation: That as there have been no objections to the building extension proposal, the Council as landowner, grant approval for this project to proceed, subject to the following conditions:
1. The club obtaining building consent before work commences on the site.
2. The club agreeing to comply with all bylaws, regulations and statutes pertaining to the construction and operation of the building.
3. The exterior colour scheme for the proposed building being submitted to the Parks Manager for approval before construction commences.
4. Any landscaping around the building that is required by the Parks Manager being the club's responsibility.
5. The area being maintained in a safe, clean and tidy condition to the satisfaction of the Parks Manager or his designate at all times.
6. A bond of $2,000 being paid by the successful principal contractor to the Christchurch City Council before work commences on the site. The bond, less any expenses incurred by the Council, will be refunded to the contractor on completion of his contract.
7. All costs associated with this application being the responsibility of the club and all contractors involved in the development carrying out construction in accordance with the Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992.
3. CANTERBURY FLOAT FISHING CLUB RR 4551
| Officer Responsible | Author |
| Parks Manager | Rod Whearty, Area Parks Officer |
| Corporate Plan Output: Consents and Applications |
The purpose of this report is to obtain Council approval for the Canterbury Float Fishing Club to stock Lake 2 of Roto Kohatu and the redundant Spencer Park sewerage pond with Tench (a species of acclimatised Sports fish).
Background
The Canterbury Float Fishing Club was established in 1993 to further promote and enhance the sport of "coarse" fishing. Coarse fishing as it is commonly known has its origins in Britain and involves fishing for a variety of fresh water fish species other than trout and salmon.
There are three main species present in some New Zealand rivers, lakes and disused quarry ponds. They are Tench, Perch and Carp (feral goldfish).
Although not widely known, these species have been present since early European colonisation. The tench in particular was introduced primarily to assist in the control of midges because the larval stage of the midge makes up the staple diet of tench.
The Canterbury Float Fishing Club currently has around 60 members living in and around Christchurch and brings together a group of enthusiasts who have been actively fishing for many years.
The whole philosophy of Coarse Fishing is strictly 100% catch and release with all fish caught being returned unharmed to the water system they were caught in.
While the sport has operated in New Zealand for many years it has only been recognised formally on Fishing Licences since 1995. The Club members worked closely with the Fish and Game Council to develop the rules and regulations which now appear on the licence. The irony was that up until this time anglers still had to have a fishing licence. However the species were not listed and there were no rules or regulations governing the sport in regard to those particular species.
Controlling Authority
The North Canterbury Fish and Game Council is responsible for all acclimatised species and a licence is required to fish for them.
The Fish and Game Council has a number of criteria which must be adhered to before it will allow a water body to be stocked.
These criteria are:
1. Legalised public access to the site.
2. There is to be no outlet from the water body into a water system where that particular species is not already present and established.
3. No existing sports fish such as trout already present.
4. The water body must be capable of sustaining the fish population long term.
Recreational Opportunities
Coarse fishing is suitable for people of all ages and has the advantage that it does not require a high level of fitness or agility as with some other forms of fishing. Generally it involves the use of natural baits with the person fishing from the one spot and waiting for the fish to come to them.
The nature of this type of angling is well suited to elderly people or those with mobility difficulties. The Parks Unit anticipates that in time there may be a number of waters within the urban area where children are able to go with family members or grandparents and develop a life long interest in a safe environment without the need to travel long distances.
Developing a resource such as this within our local parks will provide another recreational component for youth and teenage age group. This age group tends to fall into a bit of a vacuum when it comes to recreational opportunities, once they have outgrown the traditional play structures. However the development of basketball half courts and skateboard facilities is also helping address the problem.
Current
The Canterbury Float Fishing Club has been working with the Parks Unit and the North Canterbury Fish and Game Council over recent months to identify and stock suitable waters which are on Council owned land or reserves to provide recreational fishing opportunities within the urban environment.
The two areas currently being worked on are Lake 2 at Roto Kohatu Reserve which was recently gifted to the Council by Bitumix; and the disused sewage oxidation pond at Spencer Park.
SELECTED SITES
Roto Kohatu (Lake 2)
The North Canterbury Fish and Game Council has assessed the potential of this lake and advise that it supports the stocking of this lake with tench. An application to do this is currently with the Minister of Conservation awaiting his approval and it is anticipated that approval will be forthcoming in the near future.
The fish are to be sourced from the Oamaru area under the supervision of the North Canterbury Fish and Game Council. Club members will test their skills by catching a number of fish which will then be transported back to the lake using the Fish and Game Council's fish transporter.
Spencer Park Oxidation Pond
This pond serviced one of the amenity blocks in the camping ground until recently when the amenity block was connected to the main sewer line. The pond is no longer required for sewage purposes and would be ideal for stocking with coarse fish.
The North Canterbury Fish and Game Council has assessed the pond and advises that it meets all the criteria.
The Canterbury Float Fishing Club believes the pond is an ideal size and is willing to assist with the development and planting of the area with labour and assistance from its members.
The Council Laboratory at the Bromley treatment station has undertaken water testing at this site and others (see Water Quality results) and the results indicate that the pond would be suitable for fish.
Westlake Reserve
Preliminary investigations have revealed that this pond may be very suitable for stocking, although further work is needed. The Fish and Game Council has not assessed this particular pond at this time and its view at this stage is unknown.
The pond does have an outlet which eventually leads to the Halswell River, however a number of coarse fish species are already established within the Halswell River system therefore it would seem feasible that the stocking of the Westlake pond may be possible.
Residents around Westlake have contacted the Council in recent years concerning the plague of midges that come from the pond, particularly over the summer months. The introduction of tench may assist with reducing the extent of the problem. The introduction of a biological control agent without the use of chemicals is a highly desirable option in these environmentally conscious days.
Lake Bryndwr (off Roydvale Avenue)
The Parks Unit is currently negotiating to acquire the remaining portion of Lake Bryndwr through Reserve Contribution in conjunction with an adjacent subdivision.
The once extensive area has been substantially reduced through back filling over the years, however the Parks Unit is hopeful of securing approximately 6000m2 of the remaining area of which approximately 3000m2 is water.
The Float Fishing Club is very keen for this area to be retained as the remaining pond still supports an established population of carp (feral goldfish).
Council Officers have recently negotiated access and permission for the Float Fishing Club to utilise the lake while acquisition details are being worked through.
Water Quality Results
It is important to note that coarse fish species can tolerate water quality and conditions inferior to those required for trout or salmon.
The Council's Laboratory which is based at the Bromley treatment plant conducted a water sampling programme at Roto Kohatu, Spencer Park and Westlake on behalf of the Parks Unit.
Tests were undertaken to determine the level of faecal coliforms and oxygen levels at all three sites. Additional tests were undertaken at Roto Kohatu to determine if heavy metals or Penta-chlorophenol were present due to the close proximity of a nearby timber treatment facility.
Results
| SITE | Dissolved Oxygen | Faecal Coliform | Pent-Chlorophenol | Copper | Chromium | Arsenic |
| Spencer Park east | 10.3 | 250 | ||||
| Spencer Park west | 10.9 | 240 | ||||
| Roto Kohatu Jetski | 10.6 | 2 | <0.1ppb | <1ppb | <1ppb | <1ppb |
| Roto Kohatu Lake 2 | 12.3 | 4 | <0.1ppb | <1ppb | <1ppb | <1ppb |
| Westlake | 12.2 | 14 |
Faecal coliforms are expressed as most proloable numbers / 100 mls. The metals and Penta-chlorophenol are expressed as parts per billion.
Penta-chlorophenol was determined by Environmental and Scientific Research in Wellington.
The Senior Scientist advised that if PCP were present then most would be contained in the lake sediments. However the value found in the overlying water would indicate that there is no contamination from the nearby timber yard. Faecal coliform counts for Roto Kohatu and Westlake are very low and the dissolved oxygen values are at saturated levels.
Spencer Park results again show dissolved oxygen at saturated levels. The faecal coliform count is very low given that it was a working oxidation pond.
To put these figures into perspective, bathing water standards are set at less than 200 faecal coliform per 100 ml. At Bromley the oxidation pond effluent (final discharge to the estuary) is around two orders of magnitude greater than the values found at Spencer Park.
Conclusion
The Parks Unit believes the development of additional fishing opportunities in some of our reserves is a very worthwhile project. The water quality and suitability of the sites chosen so far suggest that they are an ideal environment for the establishment of the selected species of sports fish.
The provision of alternative recreational activities will be very beneficial in providing opportunities for a more diverse range of activities on our local parks, particularly for the adolescent age group.
In light of the above information the Parks Unit recommends that work proceed with the proposal to stock Roto Kohatu and Spencer Park Pond, and that further work be undertaken with the North Canterbury Fish and Game Council to determine the suitability of the pond at Westlake Reserve.
The above report was referred to the relevant Community Boards for comment. The Shirley/Papanui Community Board supported the proposal to stock Lake 2 at the Roto Kotahu reserve and the Spencer Park pond with tench. The Riccarton/Wigram Community Board supported the proposal to stock Westlake once the conditions for release had been met. The Fendalton/Waimairi Community Board deferred consideration of the proposal to stock Lake Bryndwr pending the receipt of further information and a site visit. In light of the action taken by the Board, the Committee also deferred consideration of this part of the proposal and appointed a sub-committee comprising the Chairman and Councillor Condon to meet with the Board to discuss the matter further.
Recommendation: 1. That the proposal to stock Lake 2 of Roto Kohatu Reserve and Spencer Park Pond with Tench be approved.
2. That further work be undertaken with the North Canterbury Fish and Game Council to determine the suitability of the pond at Westlake Reserve.
3. That negotiations continue for the acquisition of Lake Bryndwr.
4. That the Parks Manager be authorised to approve the stocking of Westlake once conditions for release have been met.
4. PROPOSED EXHIBITION/WORKING AREA FOR STONE SCULPTURE
south brighton beach park RR 4356
| Officer responsible | Author |
| Parks Manager | Chris Freeman, Management Planning Officer |
| Corporate Plan Output: Consents Applications |
The purpose of this report is to recommend that a small area of South New Brighton Beach Park be developed to accommodate the needs of local sculptors.
An application has been received from a South Brighton Sculptor, Bon Suter, to establish a working/exhibition area on the reserve opposite her house at 525 Marine Parade.
Bon Suter's sculpture and is also involved with disabled people. One of her students, Donald Gibson, has recently received coverage in magazines including New Zealand Potters and New Idea.
Other community work in which Bon has been involved include:
Bon has pointed out the disadvantage that faces disabled artists and even local non-disabled sculptors trying to become involved in local Christchurch events such as the Sculpture Symposium.
While disabled sculptors may have excellent talent, it will generally take them longer to complete a work than non-disabled. Bon believes that allowing an area such as the proposed South Brighton site to be open to local artists, will supply the opportunity to create and display their work in a more relaxed and natural environment.
The Council's management plan for this beach park recommends gradual replacement of marram grass with coastal native plants, open picnic areas and defined areas for car parking. The addition of sculptures into proposed picnic areas is considered to complement this proposed foreshore development.
Coast Care staff are supportive, given the local community focus of Ms Suter's work with sculpture. Development requirements of mowing suitable areas and post and cable fencing can be funded from existing budgets. Incorporating seating and native planting in the long term should create a valuable feature and exhibition area for local sculptors. A sketch plan of the proposal is tabled.
The Community Arts Worker, Janet Luxton comments:
"Bon Suter is a respected Christchurch sculptor who was a participant and tutor in the recent highly successful Hagley Park Sculpture Symposium. Her training programme for local sculptors including disabled people is a valuable community art programme. The difficulty of transporting larger stones into her back yard has resulted in this request to use a small area of the large reserve over the road from her home/studio.'
Ms Suter's art work is an asset to the South Brighton community and the creation of a small working/exhibition area will not only assist local sculptors but also create interest in the reserve."
Ms Suter has already circulated the proposal to her immediate neighbours, six were supportive and one was concerned over attracting more people to the area.
While some interest is anticipated it is not considered that the sculptures will attract intensive interest or large numbers.
A conservative start is recommended, however, with only two small roadside areas being developed and a limit of six sculptures being set initially to ensure any interest is kept at an acceptable level.
It is recommended that the application be approved subject to:
1. The total number of sculptures to be set initially at six with the situation being reviewed in six months' time by the Parks Manager and the outcome of the review being reported to the Parks and Recreation Committee.
2. All blocks/sculptures to be sited to the satisfaction of the Parks Manager.
3. The reserves area to be kept safe, clean and tidy, to the satisfaction of the Parks Manager.
The above report was considered by the Burwood/Pegasus Community Board at its meeting on 3 February 1997. The Board resolved to recommend to this Committee:
1. That Ms Suter's application to use part of South Brighton Beach Park as a working/exhibition area for sculpture be approved in principle subject to the stated conditions 1-3.
2. That the proposal be forwarded to the South New Brighton Residents' Association for comment, prior to consideration by the Council.
Recommendation: 1. That the proposal be forwarded to the South New Brighton Residents' Association.
2. That Ms Suter's application to use part of South Brighton Beach Park as a working/exhibition area for sculpture be approved subject to conditions 1-3 above.
3. That the Parks Manager be authorised to revoke the consent at his discretion or in conjunction with the Parks and Recreation Committee.
5. INTERNATIONAL GARDEN CITY COMPETITION RR 3614
| Officer responsible | Author |
| Director of Operations | Jim Williamson |
| Corporate Plan Output: Elected Member Representation, Parks, Botanical Services, Parks Maintenance, Events, City Planning |
It will be recalled that at its meeting on 25 September 1996 the Council authorised Councillor Ganda and the Director of Operations to travel to India to represent the Council at the awards presentation for the above competition, organised by the Bangalore Urban Art Commission. The aim of the competition was to foster international exchanges of ideas and to develop mutual relationships.
There were 620 entries with a range of sophistication. This list was narrowed to 25 entries from 15 countries. At the presentation ceremony held in Bangalore on Saturday 18 January 1997 awards were made as follows:
1. `Outstanding' classification:
2. `Exemplary' classification:
3. `Beautiful classification:
4. `Commendation' classification:
Christchurch received the gold award in the outstanding classification section of the competition. The awards will be displayed at the Council meeting.
At the accompanying Conference on City Aesthetics there were approximately 160 guests and delegates and there was big media attention. Foreign delegates consisted of:
Councillor Ganda and Jim Williamson were in India from 15-28 January and during their visit they made contact with trade organisations in Bangalore, Bombay, Madra and Goa. Indian business people were interested in strengthening trade links in such areas as manufactured goods and horticultural and hi tech products. As well, there appeared to be opportunities for the education sector and tertiary institutions in particular seeking to attract overseas students to New Zealand could find a marketing campaign in the sub-continent a good investment.
Opportunities exist for New Zealand companies to take advantage of proposals to improve the Indian infrastructure, particularly electricity and water services.
The tourism area however, seemed less promising as, while many people were keen to visit, there were several impediments to developing New Zealand as a tourist destination. These included the lack of any package tours to New Zealand, which put the onus on potential visitors to seek out information on this country and make often complex travel arrangements themselves.
The information gathered during the visit will be passed on to the relevant sector interest groups.
Members of the Committee expressed disappointment at the coverage given by the media to the city's success in the competition, and requested that media releases be circulated to media in the main centres and that an advertising supplement be placed in the Christchurch Press.
Recommendation: That the information be received.
6. FUTURE COMMONWEALTH GAMES RR 4529
| Officer responsible | Author |
| Leisure and Community Services Unit Manager | Peter Walls |
| Corporate Plan Output: Special Events |
The purpose of this report is to provide background on the Council's activity with respect to hosting a future Commonwealth Games and to seek direction on the possibility of lodging a bid to host the 2006 Commonwealth Games.
BACKGROUND
During the 1990 Auckland Commonwealth Games the Mayor of Christchurch made a statement to the effect that Christchurch should look to host the Commonwealth Games some time in the future. The Parks and Recreation Committee at its February 1990 meeting called for a staff report on the possibility of Christchurch hosting the Games in the year 2010.
The following recommendations were adopted:
1. That the Christchurch City Council actively pursue the intention to host the Commonwealth Games in 2006, 2010 or 2014.
2. That the Christchurch City Council arrange for Mr C Knowles (General Manager Finance XIVth Commonwealth Games Ltd) to prepare a detailed operating budget for the lead up to the Games in 2010 and also a preliminary budget for the hosting of the Games.
3. That the Christchurch City Council arrange for Mr T Aldridge (Chief Executive Officer XIVth Commonwealth Games Ltd) to prepare a report on the strategies required to successfully bid for the Games and on the organisation required to host the Games.
4. That the Council staff carry out a detailed study on the requirements for each sport and activity and prepare a plan to implement the necessary improvements, alterations or new facilities by 2010.
The study was to take account of the following:
(a) The proposed use of any facility after the Games will effect whether it is permanent or temporary.
(b) Consideration needs to be given to catering for international sports prior to 2010.
(c) The feasibility of developing QEII Park as a national training centre.
(d) The consideration of other major sports development studies in Christchurch.
(e) Confirmation of appointment as host city is finalised six years before the holding of the Games.
The reports as outlined in recommendations 2 and 3 were received in August 1990. A Working Party was set up chaired by Alistair Graham and comprising Councillors Buist and Close, Bruce Ullrich, Brian Hopkins, Bob Lineham, Mike Richardson, Rex Cosgrove and Peter Walls. (Sir Ron Scott was replaced by Charlie Rhodes and Rob Dally replaced Mike Richardson.)
In May 1992 the Council endorsed arrangements for the Group Manager Metropolitan Services, Rob Dally, and Mr Bruce Ullrich to represent the Council on a fact finding mission to the Barcelona Olympic Games. The Group Manager's report went to the August Council meeting. The recommendations adopted by the Council following that report were:
1. That Bruce Ullrich be thanked for his input in an honorary capacity to the Barcelona delegation.
2. That the Working Party further consider the options in bidding for the 2002, 2006 or 2010 Commonwealth Games, with a view to confirming an indicative list of sports and indicative operating and capital budgets.
3. That bid programme options be formulated with reference to the Auckland, Victoria and Adelaide experiences with a view to recommending a bid timetable and budget.
4. That the Working Party report back to the Policy and Resources Committee in due course.
The Council, while supportive of the Working Party, has not yet confirmed support for a formal bid to hold the Games. The Working Party needed to report further on this to the Council.
In July 1994 the Council agreed to delay any final decision until it had a measure of residents' reactions through the annual residents' survey. In May 1995 the survey was carried out and the results indicated that 65% were in favour of bidding for a future Commonwealth Games, 18% were neutral and 19% were opposed.
In late 1996 following an inquiry from Council staff to the New Zealand Olympic and Commonwealth Games Association a timetable was received from that organisation outlining the bid process from their perspective. The NZOCGA required an expression of interest and a draft application by December 15 with the closing date for the final applications from cities seeking to host the 2006 Games to be received by 31 March 1997.
Because of the tight time-frame the Leisure and Community Services Unit compiled a draft application and expression of interest which was forwarded to NZOCGA by the due date. Copies of the application have been separately circulated to Councillors. (Councillors were advised of this action by memorandum from the Leisure and Community Services Unit Manager on 20 December.)
Since the initial draft was lodged we have received additional information from the NZOCGA outlining some constitutional amendments which have a major impact on the hosting of future commonwealth games for the host organising committee. As a result of this additional information and other aspects in respect of the hosting of a future games, it would seem appropriate that a Council/Officer Sub-Committee be formed to further this issue and report back to the next meeting of the Parks and Recreation
Committee. While this will result in a tight time-frame to complete a final proposal, it is essential that any decision on the hosting of a future commonwealth games is discussed in some detail as the implications of a financial nature are significant.
Recommendation: That a sub-committee comprising Councillors Freeman, Buist, Condon and Sheriff be appointed to report on the possibility of hosting the Commonwealth Games in the year 2006.
7. HILLARY COMMISSION RR 4536
new zealand junior sport policy - draft 2
| Officer responsible | Author |
| Leisure and Community Services Manager | Rex Cosgrove, Senior Sports Adviser |
| Corporate Plan Output: Sports Liaison and Development |
The purpose of this report is to give the Council the opportunity to respond to the Hillary Commission's Draft 2 Policy for Junior Sport in New Zealand. (The Draft 2 Policy document has been separately calculated to Councillors.)
BACKGROUND
Councillors will recall that the Hillary Commission's first Draft Policy for Junior Sport was reviewed at the Parks and Recreation Committee Meeting of 14 August 1996.
Following discussion the Committee agreed to examine the document in detail through a sub-committee. The sub-committee members were Councillor Freeman, Chairman, and Councillors Buist, Cox and Condon.
Following a detailed examination of the First Draft the sub-committee forwarded their submissions direct to the Hillary Commission on behalf of the Council.
SUBMISSIONS ON POLICY DRAFT 2
The Hillary Commission asks for Council submissions to be forwarded by Friday 4 April 1997
The Committee requested the Leisure and Community Services Manager to prepare a further submission on Draft 2 of the above Policy, based on the Council's original submission for the consideration of the sub-committee.
Recommendation: That authority be delegated to the sub-committee referred to in the above report to approve the submission on the Hillary Commission's Policy for Junior Sport, on behalf of the City Council.
8. METROPOLITAN RESERVES HEARINGS PANEL RR 4568
| Officer responsible | Author |
| Legal Services Manager | Peter Mitchell |
| Corporate Plan Output: Legal Advice |
This Panel was appointed by the Council in November 1995 and has delegated power to hear submissions and objections in relation to various issues under the Reserves Act 1977.
At the time it was appointed the report omitted to recommend a quorum for the panel, as is provided for with the Resource Management Hearings Panel, and also that the composition of the panel would be approved by the Chairperson of the Parks Committee.
Accordingly it is recommended that the Council alter its November 1995 resolution so as to provide for these two matters.
Recommendation: That the Council resolution dated 6 November 1995 appointing the Metropolitan Reserves Hearings Panel be altered by the addition of the following two clauses:
(a) Each panel shall have a minimum of three and a maximum of four members.
(b) The composition of each panel shall be approved by the Chairman of the Parks and Recreation Committee.
9. ENGLISH PARK GRANDSTAND RR 4525
| Officer responsible | Author |
| Leisure and Community Services Unit Manager | Lyall Matchett |
| Corporate Plan Output: Stadia Leased page 8.4.24 |
The purpose of this report is to inform Councillors on the state of disrepair of the grandstand at English Park and the costs associated with bringing part of the facility up to a usable standard. The repairs would last for up to five years by which time a long term plan for the Park should be in place.
A recent inspection by the Council's Design Services Unit at the request of the Leisure and Community Services Unit Manager, highlighted the serious health and safety aspects of the English Park Grandstand which has resulted in the Unit Manager declaring the building unsafe and closed until further notice.
English Park is leased by the Canterbury Football Association which holds approximately ninety matches at the ground per season. Average attendance numbers are approximately 300 per match. The grandstand currently holds seating for approximately 700. It is proposed to prepare a development plan for English Park, in the next 18 months in conjunction with the CFA, to determine the ground and facility's future use. (The park also has a semi-redundant cycle track.) At that time the future of the grandstand should be determined. In the meantime there is value in retaining at least part of the existing grandstand for use during soccer matches.
Accordingly, Design Services were requested to provide costings for carrying out structural strengthening to the whole building and to upgrade the grandstand to provide covered seating for approximately 300 persons. The rest of the building would be made inaccessible.
An estimate of costings received are:
Structural Strengthening
| Consists of constructing new bracing trusses and concrete pads, reattaching bearers. | $11,900
|
| Other necessary work Removing part of seating, replacing bleachers, rewiring and providing new light fittings and downpipes. |
$16,300
|
| Preparation of Report | $3,000 |
| Design and Supervision | $2,900 _______ |
| $31,100 |
Design Services have also provided an estimate for carrying out some cosmetic improvements i.e. replacing facings and barge boards and repainting at a cost of $8,800. This work is not considered necessary based on the intended future life of the building.
As the building is a significant health and safety risk in its present state, we have an obligation either to carry out the necessary improvements or demolish the grandstand.
FUTURE PLANS
The recent Asset Management audit identified the need to spend $155,000 on the maintenance of the facility over the next 10 years. This does not provide for any improvements, or work associated with the cycle track.
Before committing itself to significant maintenance expenditure above the $31,100 proposed for the grandstand, the Council needs to consider the whole future of English Park. A review of the facility, and its prospects for future use needs to be prepared for the Committee's consideration, with projected costings for maintenance and development.
It is recommended:
1. That, if funds are available at the 6 monthly review, then approval be granted to carry out remedial conservation work on the English Park Grandstand of $31,100.
2. That if funds are not available then provision be made in the 1997/98 draft Annual Plan for the above work.
3. That a review of English Park be commenced during 1997.
The Committee deferred consideration of the above report pending an onsite meeting to inspect the stand.
The Committee met on site with representatives of the Canterbury Football Association and Council staff on Monday 17 February when City Design staff identified the various structural defects and confirmed the advice contained in the staff report that the structure was unsafe and a fire risk in its present condition.
While acknowledging the course of action proposed by staff would provide the time to review the options for the future of English Park, the Committee had reservations about undertaking temporary repairs costing in excess of $30,000 which would extend the life of part of the stand for only five years and provide seating for 300 spectators.
In view of the structural condition of the stand the Committee concluded it should be demolished and replaced, as an interim measure for the 1997 season, with temporary covered seating and, then, with a permanent facility to meet soccer's requirements.
Recommendation: 1. That the action taken in closing the English Park grandstand be confirmed.
2. That the Leisure and Community Services Manager report back on:
(a) The cost of demolishing the existing grandstand and providing temporary covered seating for the 1997 season.
(b) The cost of constructing a replacement grandstand and toilet facilities.
(c) Landscaping the western boundary of the park.
PART B - ITEMS DEALT WITH BY THE COMMITTEE AND
REPORTED FOR INFORMATION ONLY
10. NEW BRIGHTON FIREWORKS DISPLAY RR 4400
The Communications and Promotions Manager submitted a report reviewing the New Brighton fireworks display held on 5 November 1996.
The Communications and Promotions Manager also tabled a memorandum from the Coast Care Co-ordinator raising concerns regarding the 1997 event. This year, unlike 1996, conditions will not be ideal because high tide will occur at approximately 8.30 pm, immediately prior to the actual fireworks display. As a consequence only a very narrow strip of beach will be available for viewing the display. This will mean that the audience will be forced to view the display from the sand dunes placing at risk the environmental and dune restoration work being undertaken under the Coast Care programme. The Coast Care Co-ordinator recommended that this year, the fireworks display either be relocated to another site or the date of the display be changed to coincide with a low tide.
The Committee resolved:
1. That the Communications and Promotions Manager report back on suitable alternative dates for this year's Guy Fawkes fireworks event.
2. That the Communications and Promotions Manager report back on the opportunities and cost implications of enhancing the event for the benefit of the New Brighton commercial area and the wider community.
3. That public passenger transport be facilitated by the Communications and Promotions Unit for future Guy Fawkes fireworks events and be reviewed annually.
4. That a sub-committee comprising Councillors Cox and Ganda meet with elected members of the Canterbury Regional Council to pursue the question of the Regional Council contributing towards the cost of the bus services as part of their public passenger transport promotional activities.
11. PARKS ISSUES ARISING FROM CITY PLAN HEARINGS RR 4338
The Chairman of the City Plan Hearings Committee, Councillor Manning, reported on two parks related issues which arose in the course of the hearing of submissions on the City Plan.
The first concerned the establishment of plantings to encourage native wood pigeons to return to the city. The second related to the establishment of shade areas in Council parks and reserves.
The Committee resolved
1. That the Parks Manager discuss with the Forest and Bird Protection Society the possibility of a kereru recovery programme.
2. That in future the Parks Manager ensure provision is made for shaded areas in new parks.
3. That the Parks Manager develop a programme for providing shaded areas in existing parks where practicable.
12. SYDENHAM CEMETERY RR 4532
The Parks Manager reported on progress in addressing the drainage problems at Sydenham Cemetery and sought confirmation of the action taken in funding the cost of the drainage work from within the Parks Unit's sub-budget.
The Committee resolved that the action taken be confirmed.
13. SPORTARAMA `96 AND RECOMMENDATIONS
for future event RR 3474
The Leisure and Community Services Manager reported on the outcomes of the 1996 Sportarama and proposals for the 1997 and 1998 events.
The Committee resolved that the Chairman hold discussions with Councillors Buist and Cox regarding the Council's future involvement in Sportarama and report to the March meeting of the Committee.
14. RECOGNITION OF ACHIEVEMENTS OF
CANTERBURY SPORTS PEOPLE
Councillor Ganda referred to the recent success of Canterbury sports teams in national competitions and suggested that these and future sporting achievements be appropriately recognised by the Council.
The Committee endorsed this suggestion and resolved that the Leisure and Community Services Manager report back to the Committee on suitable ways of recognising the achievements of Canterbury sports people.
15. SUPPLEMENTARY ITEM
GROYNES SHOP CONCESSION
The Chairman sought the approval of the Committee to introduce a supplementary item on the above topic. The reasons why the item was not on the agenda for the present meeting and why the matter cannot wait for the next meeting were explained to the Committee.
The Committee resolved that the report be received and considered at the present meeting.
The Chairman outlined his concerns regarding the inadequacy of the temporary shop arrangements which had been put in place for the 1996/97 summer season to service the Groynes Recreational Area.
The Committee resolved that a sub-committee comprising Councillor Freeman (Chairman), Councillors Condon, Sheriff and Ganda be appointed to review the options for providing an improved service and to report back to the Committee.
16. ITEMS RECEIVED
The Committee received the following reports:
16.1 Memorial Park Cemetery - Interim Results of Test Bores RR 4540
16.2 Children's Strategy - New SummerTimes Event for Children RR 4533
16.3 Playground Undersurfacing Programme - Update RR 8550
16.4 Canterbury Sports Foundation - 1996 Grants RR 4552
16.5 Changes to February Meetings Schedule RR 4553
16.6 Unit Management and Service Delivery
Schedules showing the services delivered and facilities managed by the units which report to the Committee were tabled for Councillors' information.
17. RESOLUTION TO EXCLUDE THE PUBLIC
The Committee resolved that the draft resolution to exclude the public set out on page 33 of the agenda be adopted.
CONSIDERED THIS 26TH DAY OF FEBRUARY 1997
MAYOR