Central Otago District Council property and facilities manager Garreth Robinson said the hall, which was originally due to be dismantled this month, was likely to be demolished "either at the end of 2023 at the earliest, but more likely to be early 2024, subject to the contractor’s programme".
The original 60-year-old hall is set to be replaced with a new multipurpose $40 million facility — something that has been more than 20 years in the making and not without controversy.
The project has been marked with indecision and debate, but the council has heard the resounding call of people to "just get on with it".
The claims were dismissed after an investigation by the ombudsman.
Now the project was progressing, with a building consent application for the new facility lodged with the council.
Architects Jasmax are nearing completion of the facilities detailed design phase following the Cromwell Community Board’s endorsement at its meeting in May.
Work has also been continuing with external funders to seek support for the project’s capital investment.
The tender process for demolition of the existing hall and construction of the new facility started last month, with the four shortlisted respondents from the initial registration of interest procurement process invited to a site briefing by the council’s evaluation team.
Tenders close on November 2.
The council is also working with the Cromwell and Districts Museum to confirm how artefacts will be relocated.
Mr Robinson said the council was "exploring opportunities to involve the community in a farewell to the current hall and acknowledge the role that it has played".
