Friday, 28 August 2015

Council to look at alternative funding for Sumner Skate Park

Christchurch City Council will look at alternative funding for the proposed Sumner Community Skate Park. Levi's has indicated that though they support the skate park, the extended length of the project approval has exhausted their budget, which means they can no longer be involved in the project.

Speaking after yesterday's consent notification hearing for the project Michael Aitken, General Manager for Culture, Leisure and Parks, said if consent is granted the Council could look at other options to fund the project, through discussions with the Council and the Community Board.

"Levi's has been a great supporter of this project from the outset and although it is disappointing they can no longer be involved, it is understandable given the delays with the project and their budgeted commitment.

"The Council has received overwhelming support from the community for this facility and should consent be granted, we will consider alternative funding options," says Mr Aitken.

Paul Sweet, Country Manager for Levi Strauss & Co New Zealand, acknowledged the Council and the community for their enthusiastic support throughout the project.

"Unfortunately, due to the extended length of the project approval process we have exhausted all the resources budgeted for this project. It is with great disappointment that we find we can no longer contribute to the proposed Sumner Community Skate Park.

"While the majority of the community were in favour of this community skate park, we respect the process the Council has followed to ensure all parties have been heard and treated fairly.

"We hope that our efforts have not been in vain and that one day this project is completed for the people of Sumner and Christchurch to enjoy," says Mr Sweet.

Information relating to the notification of the consent will be available on the Council website in early September. Visitwww.ccc.govt.nz

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