Resource consent has been granted for the $5 million Clutha Recreation Centre in Glasgow St.
The Clutha District Council, in releasing the decision yesterday, explained the 11 reasons for independent commissioner David Pullar's decision to grant the permit, and outlined 13 conditions.
One of the conditions was establishing a consultation group to help information flow between the consent-holders and Glasgow St residents.
Chairman of the Clutha Recreation Centre committee Jeff Seymour said the approval was great news for the community.
"While we understand the concerns that some of the immediate neighbours had, I think the decision is fair."
It was the end of over five years of research and public consultation on the project, Mr Seymour said.
However, the decision could face an Environment Court appeal from at least one neighbouring resident.
Stephanie Leith said she and her husband, Ken, would "give some consideration" to lodging an appeal.
The Leiths were among four Glasgow St residents who opposed the development at the consent hearing on August 24, while five organisations made submissions in favour of it.
Mrs Leith had not received a copy of the report yesterday, but was aware of the outcome.
"We would have liked to have seen it built somewhere else."
Mr Seymour said the committee would be working hard to keep the neighbours informed about the project and, where possible, ask them to help make decisions to minimise their concerns.
