Stadium decision time for Auckland City Council

The government has asked Auckland to decide whether it would prefer a new waterfront stadium or a redeveloped Eden Park stadium for the Rugby World Cup 2011.

The Auckland City Council and the Auckland Regional Council have until 24 November to decide on their preference for one of the above options.

“While this is the third biggest sporting event in the world, this is not just about a game of rugby. This is a unique opportunity to create a multi-use world-class facility which can be enjoyed by future generations,” says Mayor of Auckland city Dick Hubbard.

The Rugby World Cup 2011 will result in total economic activity of approximately $1.15 billion. This includes $262 million of total direct additional expenditure within Auckland and $240 million in additional GDP in the Auckland economy. *

The council voted last month to support a waterfront stadium, with Eden Park as one of the back-up options.

The government sees the waterfront option as a national stadium and has therefore offered to contribute a much higher proportion of the total cost.

“The next 10 days are designed to allow the councils to make a final decision,” says Mr Hubbard. “Public opinion is important to the decision-making process, but we need to carefully balance this with other equally important considerations. These include urban design principles, economic development opportunities, transport considerations, costs, long-term return on our investment and the positive impact a stadium development would have on the revitalisation of our central city.

”We will be looking carefully at all of this information before we make our decision.”

“It is paramount that we make an informed decision which ensures we have a fine stadium in Auckland in time for the Rugby World Cup 2011,” says Economic Development and Sustainable Business Committee chairperson, Councillor Richard Northey. “It is equally vital that we consider fully the range of events the venue can accommodate in the future.”

In order to make an informed decision, the councils will be gathering more information, canvassing key stakeholders, hearing directly from the Eden Park Trust Board and central government and holding detailed discussions on the matter.

“The waterfront and Eden Park are the only two options the government is considering if Auckland is to be the main host of Rugby World Cup 2011,” says Mr Hubbard.

Aucklanders’ are invited to read the pros and cons of both proposals by visitingwww.aucklandcity.govt.nz/stadium, where there is comprehensive analysis of the options.

Please provide your feedback to us via one of the options below:

submitting your views at www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/stadium

emailing stadiumfeedback@aucklandcity.govt.nz

phoning 0508 4782 3486

fax 09 307 7355

posting your views to the research and consultation manager, Auckland City, Private Bag 92516, Wellesley Street, Auckland 1141

filling out a feedback form at your local library.

Aucklanders have until noon on Wednesday, 22 November to submit feedback. Auckland City Council will meet to make a final decision on Thursday, 23 November.

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