During the past three weeks much of my time has been dominated by issues surrounding the Regional Sports Park. Today I want to give an absolute commitment that, despite obstacles and changes, the project is on track and very much alive.
I liken the recent hurdles to those faced when the Sydney Opera House was built. It was a large controversial project which faced many challenges. Nobody would today argue its merits, let alone remember the battles that were faced.
The Regional Sports Park is a visionary project for the people of Hawke's Bay. Its 56-million-dollar budget is daunting, but its potential is limitless.
Despite what you may have heard, the project is being put together in a very methodical, reasonable and structured way. The construction, funding and operation will all be put together by some very talented people working for the Trust.
There are two hurdles currently before the trustees. One relates to money and one relates to court action by a small group who are concerned about the quality of the land being used up by the Park.
On the funding issue, we acknowledge that the current economic conditions make this more challenging. Many of the funding sources, including trusts and corporates, have significant cash shortfalls at the moment. Despite this we have been heartened by the widespread support received for the project.
More significantly in the short-term are the two court processes in the way of the Park and, immediately, the grandstand. A small group of orchardists are challenging the Council planning decisions.
While I accept that such challenges can be part of any consenting process, I do not believe that a grandstand that was asked for by the people in a binding referendum should be held up by five people. It flies in the face of democracy and more importantly puts at risk potential funding, construction jobs and major events planned for 2010.
The Trust and the Council are currently looking at options for resolving these matters, but delays are likely.
All this being said, I am committed to this project and simply see this as another test along the way. The building of the Pettigrew.Green Arena took two attempts. Everybody today regards this as a runaway success. I am convinced the same will apply to the Regional Sports Park. Our children and future generations will thank us.
