Findings from the Our Community Spaces research has now been published on Queenstown Lakes District Council’s (QLDC) website.

QLDC Senior Advisor, Community Liason and Policy, Marie Day oversaw the research, which was sponsored by regional funders Central Lakes Trust, Community Trust South and the Otago Community Trust.

“Over 200 community groups, services and facility managers contributed to this research and we want to thank them for taking their time to do this. The report provides real insight into local community groups and services, particularly in relation to their current and future facility needs” said Ms Day.

QLDC Community Services General Manager Thunes Cloete advised the objective of the research was to understand what facilities are currently used, who uses them, and where opportunities lie for facility development in our growing district.

“After carrying out the research, it is clear there is a real need for improved planning with community funders and community groups, and also a partnership approach across a wide range of stakeholders,” said Dr Cloete.

The regional funders - Otago Community Trust, Central Lakes Trust and Community Trust South - all shared this sentiment.

“As a major funder in the Queenstown Lakes District we recognise the challenges facing the district with unprecedented growth and the impact this has on community facilities,” said Barbara Bridger, Chief Executive of Otago Community Trust.

“The findings will be beneficial for future planning and give insight into the needs and demands that community groups and services have for facilities and space in the region,” said Margo Hishon, Chair of Community Trust South.

“It’s particularly useful to understand these challenges, so we can take a proactive, co-ordinated approach to future community investment requirements,” said Susan Finlay, Chief Executive of Central Lakes Trust.

“We are confident that with this information, all parties can work more closely to together to ensure resources are maximised to deliver the best outcomes for our communities,” added Mrs Bridger.

The key ideas and opportunities identified through the research are to:

• plan a more coordinated approach to community facility development
• take a networked approach to facility management
• build collaborative partnerships
• harness innovation and good design principles
• ensure council-owned facilities meet demand
• identify land for facility development
• explore and develop creative funding avenues.

The report and supplementary information can be read at: www.qldc.govt.nz/our-community/community-research

© Scoop Media