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Councillors to Debate the Future of Sumpter Wharf

Waitaki District Council

Thursday 20 October 2011, 1:55PM

By Waitaki District Council

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Councillors will discuss how to respond to the long term status of Sumpter Wharf at next Tuesday’s Committee of the Whole meeting. The 300 foot structure was constructed in 1884 using Australian hard timber and had a likely original design life of approximately 50 years. Over the years the condition of the structure has deteriorated due to its age and impact of the elements.

The Council’s Harbour Sub Committee and officers have identified a number of issues for discussion including the feasibility of approaching external funders to the support the restoration of the wharf (which could potentially be a million dollar plus project) to doing nothing. Carolyn Carter Council’s, Corporate Services Group Manager explained:

“Councillors will have an opportunity to discuss the recommendations from the Harbour Sub Committee as well as advice from officers regarding the future of this structure. Sumpter Wharf represents a complex and challenging problem of preservation which Council needs to consider and prioritise in the very near future”.