19 February 2009

MEDIA RELEASE

Public debate for Carisbrook’s biggest test

Carisbrook will face its biggest test in its sporting history if approval is given to a new stadium in Dunedin, says the New Zealand Historic Places Trust (NZHPT).

Dunedin City Council (DCC) and Otago Regional Council last week voted to continue with the project, subject to further conditions being met. Indications are the Otago Rugby Football Union (ORFU), as owner of Carisbrook, could sell it to DCC - possibly for redevelopment - if a new stadium proceeds.

With that in mind, NZHPT considered it timely that public debate was widened over Carisbrook’s future, with the community having its opportunity to say how the city’s internationally-recognised landmark could be re-developed yet retain its heritage values and character.

NZHPT formally recognised key heritage features of Carisbrook with its Category I registration last year, extending primarily to the playing field, terrace embankment and the single-storey Turnstile Building below the Neville Street Stand. The ORFU submission during the registration process said it did not dispute the ‘significance that Carisbrook has held in the emotional memory of people in Otago, nor its significance in New Zealand sports history and the role that plays in the identity of New Zealanders’.

NZHPT registration does not offer any protection to Carisbrook, nor does it prevent future development for any owner. In putting forward an idea for the future of Carisbrook, NZHPT is demonstrating that heritage values can be retained and sit alongside redevelopment.

One redevelopment example suggested by NZHPT was for new development to occur on parts of the existing stadium land with a reduced sports field area being retained. The reduced sports field could incorporate part of the original pitch, suitable for junior rugby and cricket – recalling the ground’s origins. Carisbrook could still be entered through the historic Terrace Turnstile Building on Neville Street where part of the old 1959 Neville Street stand could also be retained for spectators. The northern end could be bounded by a grassy embankment, reminiscent of the original - and legendary - terraces.

Owen Graham, NZHPT Otago/Southland area manager, said ultimately it would be up to council, as owner, to decide what options for Carisbrook were viable and whether they served both its community and fiscal objectives.

“If redevelopment is the preferred option then keeping part of Carisbrook as a public sports field should be considered,” Mr Graham said.

“In this way the historic place can be remembered and would add value to any new development around it and future generations of young All Blacks can continue to say they played at Carisbrook when they came through the grades.”

Mr Graham said the heritage value or significance in New Zealand sports history of Carisbrook could not be transplanted to another venue – and resorting to naming a street or erecting a plaque at the site hardly seemed adequate.

“Recognising the value of, and saving, heritage is in the hands of the community and its elected representatives. Options do exist and should be explored and that’s a challenge NZHPT would like the owners and Dunedin City Council to take up as the public and council look at future options and uses for Carisbrook.

“We’re hopeful that before the fulltime whistle is blown there’s still time for one or two magical plays that will keep everyone happy.”

ENDS

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