Feedback on grandstand needed

COMMUNITY feedback is needed on the possible future of the rugby grandstand at Sanson Domain.

The Manawatu District Council is seeking input as part of its Draft Long Term Plan 2012-2022, which is open for public consultation until May 10.

Council said the grandstand had been deteriorating for a number of years and was no longer used actively as a sports facility and asked if money should be spent to bring it up to a usable standard.

It also asked who would use the grandstand, was it better to prioritise other work around the community and should the grandstand be safely demolished.

“At this stage, we don’t know how much it would cost to repair and to ensure it is compliant with the Earthquake Prone Buildings Policy. We do know that no one is using it, or has done so for some years.”

If council funded repair of old buildings such as the grandstand there would be a cost to ratepayers. A rating increase could be used or the work loan-funded, though this would still be repaid from rates.

“If we chose to demolish the grandstand, there would also be a cost, though it is likely to be less than repair,” said council.

The draft plan also reported that the Sanson community wanted to see its town upgraded.

“This has been identified as achievable through rollout of the community planning project, which creates a partnership between council and communities to achieve a shared vision for their area.”

Council said Sanson had been identified as the first community to participate in community planning, with new funding supporting the project.

Northern communities including Rangiwahia, Apiti and Pohangina are also identified as early participants in community planning. Active community committees and council investment in developing the Country Road tourist route meant those areas were poised for enhancement.

"As well as the project funding - $60,000 per year in the long term plan – council believes other sources of funding including trusts and grants can be generated through partnership with the community.”

It said other opportunities existed in bringing together council plans and investment, such as working with council’s roading team to plan required footpaths and the phasing of works.

MDC’s Long Term Plan is the three-yearly long term planning document required by the Local Government Act 2002 and the draft reflects the amendments made to the Act in 2010, including requirements for “Council Outcomes”. The draft plan also includes new “Vision” statements developed by council last year.

All residents are encouraged to read the plan, or its summary, and make a submission if they have a strong opinion on any particular issue.