Lake silt volumes blows out budget

Budgeted expenditure on restoring Lake Moana-nui has blown out to almost $1 million after a few unexpected hurdles.

The project, which has had a few delays including the processing of resource consents, will be complete by July.

The estimated cost of the upgrade has increased to $980,000 from the original $ 630,000 following an unexpectedly large volume of accumulated silt found when the lake was completely emptied.

As a result of this cost increase, the project went back to the South Waikato District Council for further discussion.

Three options were available to council:

Doing the job properly with the increased price tag of $980,000.

Not doing the lake restoration project. Instead doing landscaping and shaping to return the area to a grass reserve with a stream at a cost of $700,000.

Doing only part of the work to remain within the initial cost estimate of $630,000. However, because of the volume of silt needing to be removed, this would not have given a substantial improvement.

Chief executive Craig Hobbs said the council has chosen the most expensive option because it knows the value and importance of the lake to the community.

‘‘We acknowledge the community’s support and patience,’’ he said. ‘‘We too are looking forward to seeing Lake Moana-nui return to its former glory.’’