Surrey Park plans target grandstand
Invercargill’s Surrey Park grandstand could be replaced or rebuilt entirely if development plans are given the green light.
Wooden seats that trap fingers, rust, and leaks are just some of the shortcomings of the grandstand, which might not be safe in large earthquakes.
Concept plans for the future of the park, indicate some facilities could be shifted, more carparks added and new buildings for the softball club.
Southland Softball Association president Rata Hopa said the club was looking forward to a new development for softball in the region.
‘‘We are going to be very interested to know what the final outcome will be.’’
Changes would allow overlapping fields for softball in the summer and soccer and the winter, which would increase usability, Hopa said.
Southland Football development manager Ignacio Sande said the plans were a great initiative to improve the facilities.
‘‘[It would] bring sports clubs together like Queens Park AFC, Waihopai AFC and others sport across Surrey Park, sharing ideas, resources, knowledge and skills, and boosting sports participation in our region.’’
Southland football clubs faced challenges to manage grounds, buildings and other facilities, Sande said.
‘‘It has been recognised that through the formation of collaborative organisational structures sports facilities can be provided far more efficiently and effectively.’’
‘‘The new Surrey Park strategy provides a pathway, for Southland football clubs and others sponsoring organisations to work together, towards increased participation in sports and through this a healthier community.’’
Invercargill City Council parks and reserves manager Robin Pagan said some developments could take 10 to 20 years and costs were not yet known. ‘‘Each item would have to be costed as the development came along and those developments could change from now to ten years time.’’ The grandstand, the only council-owned facility at Surrey Park, required work within the next few years because of the level of earthquake risk, Pagan said.
The roof leaked in to the changing rooms and other facilities, and there was rust on the structure, he said.
Plans are ready for final consultation with clubs and the public and will go before the Invercargill City Council infrastructure committee on Tuesday.