Cricket Nets Get the Go-Ahead

Fri 25 Nov 2011

Cricket practice nets will be constructed at Pukekura Park next year after funding was approved today (Friday) by the Council.

NPDC has rescinded its previous decision to consider the nets’ funding during next year’s Long-Term Plan, and instead accepted an offer by TSB Community Trust to fund half the cost with the rest coming from the Council’s year-end surplus.

The trust is underwriting $112,500 of its $212,500 share against contributions from other funders.

Mayor Harry Duynhoven says the nets will be constructed in time for the 2012/13 season.

“With this confirmation of our commitment to having first-class cricket at Pukekura Park, we hope New Zealand Cricket will show its commitment to New Plymouth with regards to this season’s cricket schedule,” he says.

In confirming the new funding, the Council noted legal advice that the operating surplus could be applied to planned works or activities which take into account previous decisions regarding levels of service.

“We have always said we would maintain Pukekura Park as a first-class cricket ground. To do that, the ground needs cricket practice nets for it to meet the warrant of fitness criteria from New Zealand Cricket,” says the Mayor.

In 2007 the prestigious British publisher Wisden named Pukekura Park one of the top six cricket grounds in world, with author Tim de Lisle citing its “gorgeous, natural setting”.

ENDS

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