Balls remain in the air over Conference Centre

A draft feasibility study on a proposed conference centre for Queenstown had to be considered in the context of a number of other factors, Queenstown Lakes District Council Mayor and Conference Centre Working Party chairperson Vanessa van Uden said.

The draft report, which was leaked to the media last week, simply formed part of the group’s need to gather information before more meaningful consultation could be had.

“The report talks about a $43 million cost, which is an opinion, given in a draft study. The cheque book hasn’t even been printed yet on this project, so let me reassure the community that this is still a discussion and nothing more,” Ms van Uden said.

The balls in the air also included any potential location for the centre.

“I think it is fair to say that the working group is not prepared to close the door on any potential location at this time but we are beginning to bring the elements together that will assist this community in coming towards some clear views around venue,” she said.

The report, which was commissioned by QLDC, also outlined potential economic benefit to the community, as well as recommendations regarding size and content. It also highlighted a positive response from the business community via a Chamber of Commerce Survey.

“What it has done is give us some confidence that a conference centre will add to the local economy, that there is a market for such a centre, that we have the capacity in terms of accommodation and infrastructure and that there is real benefit in optimising visitor opportunities year-round,” Ms van Uden said.

Although the report was commissioned and funded by Council, the working party remained entirely independent of QLDC.

“We would like to reach a point where we make a considered recommendation to the Council but we have yet to reach that stage,” she said.

At present the working group would continue to work closely in tandem with the Ministry of Business Innovation and Enterprise, with a Queenstown conference centre seen as part of a national network.

“It will be essential that any centre be built in partnership with Central Government, not only in terms of funding but also opportunities,” Ms van Uden said.

Ultimately any project involving Council would require full consultation with this community.