A plan to turn the old wastewater ponds in Wanaka into sports fields has been given the go-ahead, with a hope some grass could be sprouting in a year’s time.
The 20ha site of the old ponds in Ballantyne Rd was zoned as recreation/active space, but in the council’s long-term plan it was not set to be upgraded for six years.
Wanaka company Willowbridge Development, the neighbouring landowner of the ponds, said it needed to remove 149,000 cubic metres from an existing development site and could provide clean fill to create a flat 20ha grassed site.
The council yesterday agreed to a confidential commercial agreement with the company.
Deputy mayor Quentin Smith said it was a mutually beneficial situation.
"We have a need and a provider who’s uniquely placed ... to provide that need.
"It will potentially actually save us cost and time in the long run. We can’t do it any other way that is cheaper [or] more effective. There’s very little downside."
Cr Lyal Cocks said it was a really significant project for the district
"I think it’s a major milestone for the development in the district, particularly Upper Clutha.
"I look forward to what it’s going to provide in the future."
A full-sized rugby field was about a hectare so it was a big site.
Willowbridge Development director Allan Dippie said it was a landmark decision.
He considered it similar to the council developing Pembroke Park in the centre of town.
"It is a very far-sighted decision from the council.
"It will create the single biggest recreational space in the district.
"It is a massive job we are undertaking but it makes sense.
"This is going to be for the benefit of a lot of people in Wanaka."
Wanaka sports clubs had submitted to council earlier this year about the lack of grounds in Wanaka.
The company had the consents ready to go and would look to move on to the site as quickly as possible, Mr Dippie said.
The old ponds were just sitting around and were becoming an eyesore, full of rubbish and old cars.
The company would get the fields into a decent order, though the final development would be done by another company.
He hoped by next spring grass would be growing in the area.
