A special consultation begins today to gather feedback from the Clutha District community on the future of the Milton Swimming Pool and Community Library project.
During the 2024/34 Long Term Plan (LTP) process, the updated project budget for the facility came in at around $20 million.
Given that it this was considerably more than the current approved budget of $17.6 million and, due to the level of significance, Council decided they had little choice but to consult again as a Special Consultative Process as per its Significance and Engagement Policy.
Mayor Bryan Cadogan said he acknowledged that we were in uncertain times and delays had translated to cost increases.
“Quite literally these discussions will define the future trajectory of not only the community, but our district, because Milton still has the potential to be our districts fastest growing and most vibrant area.
“But, there are key infrastructural investments required to enable full potential to be reached.
There are two options available for those wishing to have their say. The first option was to proceed with the $19.4 million project, creating a community library and pool facility including a six lane swimming pool.
The second option was to stop the proposed project completely, and instead determine the current financial needs of the existing Milton Community Library and Swimming Pool.
During the LTP decisions process, Council decided to keep the existing $17.6 million budget in the 2024/34 LTP until a decision has been made from the consultation, meaning that there would be no significant impact to rates during the 2024/25 rating year.
Two information sessions will be held on Thursday, 26 September in Milton to answer questions and discuss both options in detail. Mayor Bryan Cadogan, Councillors and key staff will be at the Milton Coronation Hall between 12pm-1.30pm, and again in the evening between 6.30pm-8pm. Those interested in the future of the project are welcome to attend.
Consultation will run for one month, closing on Wednesday, 23 October at 5pm.
Visit our website to read about each option in more detail, including the financial implications of each option. You can also submit your feedback via the online feedback form.
www.cluthadc.govt.nz/BCF-consultation
Alternatively, hardcopy consultation documents and submission forms will be available from Council’s Rosebank office, your local Community Library or the Clutha isite.
