Govt Funding For The Dowse Welcomed

NEWS RELEASE
from Hutt City Council
MONDAY 23 MAY

Govt Funding For The Dowse Welcomed

Hutt City Museums Director, Tim Walker has welcomed news that the Government has approved a grant of $1.969 million (GST inclusive) for the redevelopment of The Dowse.

"This is a significant step forward and means that construction is likely to begin before the end of the year," said Tim Walker.

"It's great news for the people of Hutt City and is in no small way a direct result of the increased support shown for the project by Hutt City Mayor David Ogden and all councillors.

"The recent decision by Council to increase its financial commitment to the project up to $1.75 million was a significant factor in the decision by the Government to make the grant from the Regional Museums Policy."

"This project will greatly add to The Dowse's ability to deliver, economically as well as culturally, to the communities of Hutt Valley and the Wellington region. With this support the Government is showing their confidence in us to do this," said Tim Walker.

Hutt City Council is currently consulting on its Draft Long Term Council Community Plan, which contains a commitment of $1.75 million for the project.

"I would like to acknowledge the many hours of hard work and dedication shown by The Dowse Foundation in particular and the Friends of the Dowse who have helped to bring this exciting project to fruition," said Tim Walker.

"The Dowse also enjoys very strong community support, which has greatly assisted fundraising efforts.

The Dowse Foundation has raised $1.2 million in pledges so far, with another $500,000 still to be raised.

"While representing around 10 per cent of the total redevelopment budget it is still a significant amount of money left to raise. Funds raised to date represent the bricks and mortar component of the project - what's still needed is money to complete the fitout of the building.

"We are confident that we'll achieve our fundraising target and hope to be in position to announce more good news in the near future," said Tim Walker.

ENDS

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