Partnership for a new hockey turf in Palmerston North

Palmerston North City Council is now seeking registrations of interest from schools and other organisations keen to establish a top quality hockey turf.

The Council is looking for a partner willing to have the turf on their property, make a financial contribution to the project and help raise funds.

It has written to 46 schools, tertiary education institutions and other outdoor field providers encouraging them to register.

“We already know a number of education institutions are interested in creating another hockey field in Palmerston North but there may be others out there. We will be advertising in addition to the mail out,” says John Brenkley, Parks and Property Manager for Palmerston North City Council.

Mr. Brenkley says the number of hockey players has been climbing over recent years and it has been a challenge for Hockey Manawatū to meet all their needs at the existing Twin Turfs in Fitzherbert Park.

“We look forward to working to deliver something that helps cement the Manawatū as one of the great hockey regions in New Zealand.”

Council has budgeted $500,000 in 2017/2018 to contribute towards the estimated cost of $1.5 million to build a new turf and lights, but excluding car parking and changing facilities.

“A draft partnership agreement has been created with the help of Hockey Manawatu to make sure any potential partner is aware of what the community needs.”

An assessment panel including Sport Manawatu, Hockey New Zealand, a Councillor and the Manager of Parks and Property will consider the proposals and make a recommendation to the Council in June.

Registrations of interest need to be submitted by 4:30pm on March 16 2016 and they will be treated as confidential.

“Registering interest can be done simply by phoning or sending an email. It does not mean an organisation has to commit to submitting a full proposal. Registering interest will allow Council officers to ensure everyone gets the same information and manage the assessment process efficiently,” Mr. Brenkley says.

Full proposals will be required by April 29 2016 at 4:30 pm.

To register interest or seek more details please contact Aaron Phillips, Senior Property and Parks Planner, aaron.phillips@pncc.govt.nz or phone 06 356 8199.

ENDS

© Scoop Media