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28. 5. 97
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMITTEE
14 MAY 1997
A meeting of the Parks and Recreation Committee
was held in the Information Centre, Botanic Gardens
on Wednesday 14 May 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.
APOLOGY: An apology for absence was received and accepted from the Mayor.
Councillor Cox retired at 4.45 pm and was present for clauses
The Committee reports that:
PART A - MATTERS REQUIRING A COUNCIL DECISION
1. QUEEN ELIZABETH II PARK -
FUN PARK: THE BIG LITTLE RAILWAY RR 5130
| Officer responsible |
Authors |
| Leisure and Community Services Manager |
Alan Direen |
| Corporate Plan Output: Queen Elizabeth II Park |
The purpose of this report is to present a proposal to relocate The Big Little Railway operation to the Queen Elizabeth II Park Fun Park.
The Big Little Railway has been operated by Sandford Brothers Enterprises at Guthries Road, Belfast for approximately five years. The Big Little Railway has attracted 10,000 annual visits for each of the past two years, appealing to young families in particular. The Big Little Railway has proved to be a popular venue for a diverse range of groups including schools, kindergartens and play centres, children's groups such as Keas, Scouts etc, disability groups and fundraising activities.
Mr Sandford has approached Queen Elizabeth II Park management with view to becoming established within the QEII Fun Park, operating two engines on a track laid in the north-west area of the park adjacent to the Bumper Boats and Mini Golf attractions. The proposal includes provision for station kiosk, railway bridge, fish pond, purpose-built engine shed and maintenance facility, a picnic and barbecue area.
The Big Little Railway has the ability to attract numbers to QEII Park and will benefit from being part of a multi-attraction venue. The Fun Park in turn would be enhanced by the addition of an attraction which targets primarily a younger age group than is the case with other Fun Park facilities.
The Big Little Railway operation includes the following equipment:
The proposal seeks Council assistance to provide some or all of the following relocation support:
1. A secure workshop and amenities facility
2. Earthworks for track relocation
3. Crushed ballast
4. Water
5. Electricity
6. Drainage
7. 12 month rent holiday
8. Relocation of an ice-cream kiosk
The Unit Manager does not support the Council providing financial assistance as outlined. He believes that as with the other attractions, land is leased and the operator pay all setting up costs. At present the QEII Fun Park attracts about 100,000 customers and while this proposal would be a welcome addition, it would benefit more from the location than a possible 10,000 people per year it may or may not add. It is recommended that The Big Little Railway be supported in its wish to relocate to QEII Fun Park, but entirely at its own cost and normal rent and lease conditions would apply.
Should this proposal be approved, the operators of The Big Little Railway believe that relocation would be completed to operational standards and amusement device approval within a period of four weeks. They are optimistic that they can reach that stage by 5 July 1997.
The operators are aware that Fun Park leases are due to expire in December 2004, but are still prepared to relocate to Queen Elizabeth II Park given that the Fun Park's future beyond 2004 has yet to be determined. That future is subject to a separate review.
Mr Ian Sandford, of Sandford Bros Enterprises, addressed the Committee in support of his application.
Recommendation: That the Council give approval for the establishment of The Big Little Railway at Queen Elizabeth II Park, within the confines of the QEII Fun Park subject to the acceptance of terms and conditions of a standard Christchurch City Council QEII Fun Park Lease, not to extend beyond 31 December 2004.
2. HORNBY RUGBY LEAGUE CLUB EXTENSIONS,
LESLIE PARK RR 5142
| Officer responsible |
Author |
| Parks Manager |
Brent Smith, Area Parks Officer |
| Corporate Plan Output: Consents and Applications.
Page 9.4.14 |
The purpose of this report is to seek approval from the Council for the Hornby Rugby League Club to alter their existing club rooms on Leslie Park, through the addition of a new changing shed. The report has also been referred to the Riccarton/Wigram Community Board.
BACKGROUND
The club's facilities are situated on the Halswell Junction Road frontage of Lesley Park. The club currently supports six open grade teams and nine age - grade teams, with total membership of over 280. With the increase in schools playing league, there is expected to be a further rise in membership over the next few years.
The existing changing facilities are so restricted that opposing teams often have to use the same dressing room which is of a concern to teams, coaches and the Canterbury Rugby Football League. This unsatisfactory situation will lead to fewer home games for the club unless the problem is addressed.
THE PROPOSAL
Two options were presented for the Parks Unit's consideration. The first option of building another building such as a colour steel garage as a changing facility was considered unsuitable, as the park already has its maximum coverage of buildings for its Open Space 2 zoning.
The second option (tabled) is to enclose an existing walkway to create the additional changing facility and a utility room. This option does not increase the "footprint" on the park, and would actually improve the appearance of the building. The club have been made aware that any alterations to the existing building would require the entire structure being brought up to Building Code standards.
The Property Unit comments as follows:
"The Club has a lease until 2005. The extension proposed is within the lease boundary, so there is no need to notify under the Reserves Act, or seek consent of the Department of Conservation. Building Consent is required, and Resource Consent if the floor area of the total building is over 100m2. The Council, as landowner, may set what conditions it sees fit."
CONCLUSION
The existing building is unsatisfactory as it does not meet the club's needs. The Parks Unit supports Option 2, subject to the following conditions.
1. The Club obtaining resource and building consents before work commences on the site.
2. The club agreeing to comply with all bylaws, regulations and statues pertaining to the construction and operation of the building.
3. The exterior colour scheme for the proposal being submitted to the Parks Manager for approval before construction commences.
4. Any landscaping around the building required by the Parks Manager being the Club's responsibility.
5. Any trimming of existing trees close to the work site to be undertaken by the Council, with the cost of such work being met by the club.
6. The area being maintained in a safe, clean and tidy condition to the satisfaction of the Parks Manager or his designate at all times.
7. A bond of $2,000 being paid by the successful principal contractor to the Christchurch City Council before work commences on site. The bond, less any expenses incurred by the Council, to be refunded to the contractor on completion of his contract. The contractor to meet all requirements of the Health and Safety in Employment Act.
8. A representative of the club contacting the Area Parks Officer, Sockburn, before commencing construction of the building to ascertain the Council's requirements through the development phase of the project.
9. Permission to undertake the proposed development to lapse if construction has not commenced within two years of obtaining Council permission.
10. All costs associated with this application and resulting development being paid for by the club.
At its meeting on 7 May 1997, the Riccarton/Wigram Community Board supported the above proposal.
Recommendation: That approval be given to the Hornby Rugby League Club to proceed with their proposed alterations, subject to conditions 1-10 above.
3. WASHINGTON RESERVE SKATING FACILITY RR 5192
The Parks Manager submitted a report updating the Committee on progress with the development of Washington Reserve and the response from a number of Washington Way land owners and tenants to the Council's decision to develop a skateboard facility in this reserve. Nine letters have been received expressing concern about this facility. These relate to the following:
The suitability of the skating facility's siting in a business area.
Associated vandalism, tagging, noise.
Reduced safety of workers/visitors to Washington Way.
Reduction in passive nature of the reserve.
Mr Philip Donnelly, Directory, Property Control Limited, and Ms Teri Bennet-Meyer, Canon Limited, addressed the Committee and registered their strong objections to the proposal to develop this facility in Washington Reserve. Ms Bennet-Meyer sought an extension of time to enable the owners/occupants of the commercial premises adjoining the reserve to consult their legal advisers and prepare their case.
Mr Andrew Wylie, adviser to the Council design team, addressed the Committee in support of the proposal and confirmed the suitability of the site for the proposed use. Mr Wylie submitted that the facility would enhance the safety and security of the surrounding business area.
Mr John Parr, skateboarder, also addressed the Committee and outlined the difficulties currently being experienced by skateboarders because of the lack of suitable facilities for this popular recreational pursuit.
After considering the issues raised by the objectors to the development, the Committee concluded that the development plan should be formally released for public comment and that opportunity should be given to respondents to appear before a hearings panel in support of their submissions.
Accordingly the Committee makes the recommendation that follows.
Recommendation: 1. That the development plan for Washington Reserve be released for public comment.
2. That at least one month be allowed for submissions.
3. That submissions be heard by the Council's metropolitan reserves hearings panel.
4. That authority be delegated to the panel to make a final decision on the submissions.
PART B - REPORTS FOR INFORMATION
4. DEPUTATIONS BY APPOINTMENT
(a) WASHINGTON RESERVE - DEVELOPMENT PLAN
As indicated in clause 3, the Committee received deputations from Mr Philip Donnelly and Ms Teri Bennet-Meyer opposing the proposed skateboard facility in the above reserve and deputations from Mr Andrew Wylie and Mr John Parr supporting the proposal.
(b) QEII FUN PARK
THE BIG LITTLE RAILWAY
As advised in clause 2 the Committee received a deputation from Mr Ian Sandford of Sandford Bros Enterprises in support of the proposed relocation of the above attraction to the QEII Fun Park.
5. SPORTARAMA EVENTS - 1998 RR 5053
The Leisure and Community Services Manager reported on behalf of the Sportarama Committee advising that the Committee, after reviewing the 1996 SummerTimes event had decided on a new direction and concept for future Sportarama expos.
Future events will feature a mix of static display stands and concurrent "have a go" opportunities, with the main emphasis being shifted to participatory opportunities.
The Sportarama Committee proposes to stage two expos in 1998. The first will be an outdoor event at South New Brighton Park in January/February 1998. This event will focus primarily on summer sport. The second will be held at the WestpacTrust Centre in August 1998 as part of the centre's opening festivities.
The Committee decided:
1. That subject to funding of $40,000 provided in the 1997/98 draft Annual Plan for a Sportarama Expo being confirmed the outdoor event at South New Brighton Park proceed.
2. That Councillors Buist and Cox continue to represent the Parks and Recreation Committee on the Sportarama Sub-Committee.
3. That planning be commenced for a Sportarama "Have-a-Go" Expo in the Westpac Trust Centre in August/September 1998.
4. That the Sportarama Sub-Committee report quarterly to the Parks and Recreation Committee updating the Committee on planning for the Sportarama Expos.
5. That an evaluation report be presented to the Parks and Recreation Committee following each Sportarama Expo.
6. WHARENUI AND JELLIE PARK POOLS FILTRATION RR 5206
The Leisure and Community Services Manager submitted a report informing the Committee of filtration unit problems at both Wharenui and Jellie Park pools. The report suggested three options for providing the additional filtration required at both pools and possible ways of funding part of the additional costs.
The Committee decided:
1. That it be recommended to the Annual Plan Working Party that the $60,000 provided in the Draft Plan for Sockburn Pool paddling pool be transferred to Jellie Park filtration upgrade.
2. That additional funding of $36,500 be sought in the 1997/98 Annual Plan for the Jellie Park filtration upgrade.
3. That a report be presented to the next Committee meeting providing detailed estimates for the three options for filtration upgrading at Jellie Park. That a submission to be made to the 1997/98 Draft Plan to provide the additional funds in the 1998/99 capital budget to complete the project.
4. That a report be presented to the next Committee meeting on the costs of repairs/upgrading of the mechanical services (air ventilation unit) and the installation of new filter equipment for Wharenui Pool.
7. THE MANAGING AND MARKETING OF SWIMMING POOLS
AND ASSOCIATED FACILITIES RR 5243
The Director of Policy reported, confirming that the revised report on the above topic will be the subject of a paper and presentation to the Parks and Recreation Committee.
The Committee decided that when the draft report is available it be presented to a special meeting of the Committee.
8. LAKE VICTORIA - NORTH HAGLEY PARK RR 5193
The Parks Manager reported on the problems arising from the growth of weed within Lake Victoria and the measures available for controlling this growth.
The Committee decided that the Parks Unit investigate the use of sterile grass carp for weed control in Victoria Lake.
9. PLAY FACILITIES FOR CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES RR 5044
The Parks Manager reported in response to a request from Councillor Graham Condon on the provision of play facilities for children with disabilities.
The Committee decided that a city-wide strategy be developed to provide play opportunities in parks for children with disabilities.
10. RUAPUNA PARK - CANTERBURY CAR CLUB RR 2910
The Committee appointed sub-committee comprising the Chairman, Councillors Anderton and Ganda to meet with representatives of the Canterbury Car Club Management Committee to discuss the Council's future involvement with Ruapuna Raceway.
11. ITEMS RECEIVED
The Committee received the following reports:
11.1 Pre-Olympic Games Training Guide
for the City of Christchurch RR 5001
An update was provided on progress in producing a pre-olympic training guide and associated activities to the year 2000.
11.2 Urban Parks and Waterways Best Practice Conference RR 5197
The Parks Manager reported on the aspects of the above conference which had relevance to the management of parks in Christchurch.
11.3 Roto Kohatu Reserve RR 5057
The Parks Manager submitted a progress report on the development of the Roto Kohatu Reserve.
12. ITEMS DEFERRED
The Committee deferred consideration of the following reports:
12.1 Local Open Space Policy RR 5059
This report will be considered at a special meeting of the Committee at 9.00 am on Thursday 22 May 1997.
12.2 Tree Renewal Programme -
The Botanic Gardens, Hagley Park and Mona Vale RR 5194
This report was deferred pending an onsite inspection to view the affected trees.
PART C - REPORT ON DELEGATED DECISIONS
TAKEN BY THE COMMITTEE
13. HONORARY WARDENS RR 5051
The Committee resolved that the undernamed persons be appointed as Honorary Wardens pursuant to Christchurch City Bylaw 120 Clause 5(ii) and Christchurch City Bylaw 118, Clause 4, relating to the control of parts of the Avon and Heathcote Rivers, certain foreshore and adjacent areas and the city's parks and reserves:
14. SUPPLEMENTARY ITEMS
The Chairman referred the Committee to the tabled supplementary reports on the following topics:
1. Ruapuna Park - Canterbury Car Club
2. Spencer Park - Rental Negotiations (public excluded)
The reasons why the items had not been included on the main agenda and why the matters could not wait for the next meeting were detailed in the reports.
The Committee resolved that the reports be received for consideration at the present meeting.
15. RESOLUTION TO EXCLUDE THE PUBLIC
The Committee resolved that the draft resolutions to exclude the public set out on page 34 of the agenda and on page 1 of the supplementary report be adopted.
CONSIDERED THIS 28TH DAY OF MAY 1997
MAYOR