Photo: H Pearson

Media Release – 5 June 2018 5pm

Around 200 people gathered this morning in front of Takaka’s historic 118 year old grandstand to protest its proposed demolition for carparks. Over 1000 signatures in support of keeping the grandstand were presented to Tasman District Council (TDC) at the recent full council meeting.

‘TDC staff have consistently given councillors false information on which to base their decisions regarding the grandstand. A 2017 engineer’s report rated the grandstand at approximately 45% NBS and as such it requires no seismic strengthening yet the TDC staff report to the recent full council referred only to an earlier initial seismic assessment stating ”with previous advice saying the building is less than 34% compliance with earthquake proof standards” ‘ said Golden Bay Grand Stand Community Trust trustee Hazel Pearson

With proposed demolition immanent the grandstand is now being occupied. Supporters Anne and Karl travelled from Christchurch to take part in the protest this morning.

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