40-plus applications for NRC Recreation Fund

More than 40 applicants are seeking Northland Regional Council Recreation Fund backing for wide range of projects from martial arts mats to a new gymnasium.

The Council (NRC) has collected a Regional Recreation Facilities Rate since mid-2006. Most of the rate will help fund a proposed multi-use events centre in Whangarei, however, up to $500,000 is currently available to aid access to the natural environment and identify/develop other Northland recreational and sport facilities.

In late August, the NRC invited community, recreational and sporting groups and Northland’s three District Councils to apply for a share of the Recreation Fund. Applications closed at 5pm on Friday (subs: Friday 10 October) with 43 applicants seeking almost $4 million funding between them.

Linda Stansfield, the NRC’s Projects and Information Manager, says a Regional Council Sub-Committee will now consider the applications and make recommendations to the full Council later this year.

The fund is open only to non-profit organisations for capital expenditure. Proposals must be of significance or benefit to more than one District and applicants must show there is sufficient demand for it.

Applicants must also show how the proposal will be maintained long-term and - if their proposal involves a facility - must provide a business plan demonstrating its operational viability.