This week I have witnessed what I would consider one the worst challenges to democracy that I have seen since I have been in local body politics. The lodging of a High Court Judicial Review on the new Athletics Track and the soon to be built Grandstand at the Regional Sports Park is a scandalous and pathetic attempt to stand in the way of the progress.
Not only are they standing in the way of progress, but they are thumbing their noses at the completely democratic binding referendum that was held on the relocation of the Nelson Park facilities to this site. In an overwhelming result, nearly 2 to 1 voted in favour of this relocation.
The Hastings District Council and, more recently, the Sports Park Trust has simply been putting this wish into action. In the last few days I have been inundated with outraged people wanting to know who these 5 people are and why don’t they publicly front up.
These are very good questions. The group is led by former Regional Councillor Allan Baldock. He is supported by about 3 other orchardists and a couple of supporters. There principle concern relates to the use of the horticultural land for the Sports Park. While people may be understanding of this argument, how does this group line up the significant areas of their own properties in packhouses and buildings with the public argument they are mounting.
In my role as Mayor I have to be accountable and transparent. This group who are opposing this park cannot expect to stand in the way of a democratic process and not have their own actions considered.
What we are trying to build at Percival Road is a Regional Sports Park for the people of Hawke's Bay. The project is large and ambitious and naturally involves some controversy. My fellow Trustees, Rex Graham, Colin Stone and Murray McCaw and I are passionate and committed to delivering a 50-million-dollar facility which meets the needs of our community for the next 20 – 50 years. We are heartened by the tremendous support we have received in the past 3 days. Maybe this small group that is opposing the wish of the people should take some time out to reflect on democracy. It’s important and you go against it at your peril.
I’m Lawrence Yule.
