Councillors must show commitment to unspoiled Hagley

Councillors have been asked their views on the international cricket proposal for Hagley Oval. Of those who think it a worthy idea, comments range from ‘‘it would be sad to have nothing in Hagley Park except for open space surrounded by trees’’ to ‘‘the effects of these lights [would] be minimised’’.

In response to the first comment, has this councillor ever heard of the need for solitude at times? This is what some people seek when they walk in Hagley Park, winter or summer. City environments such as Hagley Park are significant for aesthetic reasons. Such environments should not be used for grandiose promotion of professional sport and dreams of financial gain.

Councillors have been shown images of similar light towers to those that Canterbury Cricket would erect. There is no way the effects of these could be minimised, whether switched on or off.

Councillors have also been told that the two cricket clubs soon to be evicted from the oval would prefer relocation to new homes within Hagley Park (June 13). Who could blame them after such a long history there?

The predicted Hagley land grab is about to unfold unless amajority of councillors demonstrate an unequivocal commitment to leaving Hagley Park. A J WARNE

St. Albans of club growth.

As a party with a vested interest in Hagley Oval and with a mandate by our members, OBCCC representatives have had numerous discussions with Canterbury Cricket relating to domestic and international cricket returning to the natural home of cricket in Christchurch.

Through all of these discussions, the chief executive, board and other representatives of Canterbury Cricket have been transparent, considered and measured in their vision for a vibrant cricket space in central Christchurch.

Included in the talks were environmental impact, and the changes and potential betterment of facilities for club cricket. The latest plans are testament to that and provide minimal impact on the environment, and maximum benefit to current and future generations of cricket lovers.

Canterbury Cricket has the support of OBCCC in this proposal and we look forward to seeing it come to fruition.

Central Christchurch