Review of city's sports future

FUTURE NEEDS: Cooks Gardens will be part of a review of Whanganui's sporting facilities.PHOTO/SUPPLIED

A community sports hub at Springvale Park, and a river activity and tourism hub near the Whanganui River are two ideas being discussed as part of a review of the city's sport facilities.

A public workshop will be held on April 26 to discuss the city's future needs as the council and Sport Whanganui work to develop a Regional Sport Plan covering infrastructure, sport development, recreation and events.

A review by consultancy Global Leisure Group looked at key sporting facilities, including Cooks Gardens and the Splash Centre, in consultation with local sports organisations. Other facilities such as golf clubs, bowling greens, field sport facilities and other open spaces will also be reviewed.

A discussion document, based on recommendations from the review, has been developed to seek community feedback on the future of sport facilities.

Councillor Philippa Baker-Hogan said it was to ensure Whanganui had the right amount and type of facilities, and that they were maintained to a good standard.

"It is crucial the community has their say on the future of sport and recreation facilities in Whanganui, and that we are aware of what may be required to look after our major sporting assets that are the envy of other regions, and try to leverage these to highlight what a fantastic place we have," she said.

Other recommendations include the possible relocation of the Whanganui Netball Centre to Springvale Park and making indoor cricket facilities available at Jubilee Stadium.

Sport Whanganui is leading a public consultation programme that includes a workshop on Tuesday, April 26, which will be held at the Cooks Gardens Function Centre from 6-7.30pm.

Read the review, discussion document and feedback form at www.whanganui.govt.nz/haveyoursay or from the Customer Service Desk at the Council building on Guyton St, Sport Whanganui and the Whanganui District Library. The feedback period closes on May 2.