13 October 2006

Auckland City supports waterfront stadium option

Auckland City Council will make a submission to Central Government in support of a central business district (CBD) waterfront site for a stadium development for Rugby World Cup 2011, with several considerations.

Auckland City's site preference is for a stadium on the Marsden, Captain Cook and Queen wharves.

"While Auckland City will make this preference known to central government, there is still a great deal of critical information which is required to ensure the viability of this option," says Deputy Mayor Dr Bruce Hucker.

"A thorough investigation into accessing the site, the associated costs and the construction timeframe to meet the necessary deadline for Rugby World Cup 2011 is essential before a definitive decision can be made," said Dr Hucker.

This decision was made at a special council meeting held last night to determine Auckland City's preferred option.

Auckland City reached this decision based on the longer-term benefits to the social and economic performance of the city of a waterfront stadium development.

Council will also support Eden Park and Mt Smart stadium as back up sites, if Central Government's assessment determines that a CBD waterfront site is not viable.

Auckland City has previously indicated support for Eden Park. Mt Smart is also included, as council considers it has less neighbourhood impacts than Eden Park, and would like this option taken into consideration.

The stadium has been identified by Central Government as a key driver to achieve its vision for Auckland to become a world-class city. If developed appropriately, it will generate significant additional economic activity in its own right and in turn act as a catalyst for further economic transformation.

"Auckland City wants to ensure that the city is well prepared for the biggest sporting event we have ever hosted," said Dr Hucker. "Having a nationally significant, world-class stadium will certainly make Rugby World Cup 2011 a tournament to remember."

Council's site preference will be forwarded to Central Government, the GUEDO office and the Minister of Sport for consideration in their decision-making process.

ENDS

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