Approval given to forge ahead with Cambridge Pool fundraising

6 December 2011

Waipa District Council today agreed for the development of a covered pool in Cambridge to remain programmed for the 2012/13 year.

It also agreed to extend the time limit for the $4 million fundraising target to be met until April 30 next year and increase the amount it would underwrite the fundraising costs to a maximum of $70,500.

Should the fundraising target not be reached by April 30, the development will be moved to the 2015/16 year of the council's 10-Year Plan.

The decisions followed a presentation from the pool fundraising committee. Spokesman Jim Mylchreest said the committee had this week secured a $500,000 grant from the New Zealand Lotteries Commission, subject to conditions, and had attracted $830,000 in pledges and gifts in kind from the community.

There had also been an upswell of support in Cambridge and fundraising efforts were gaining momentum, he said.

Now we have secured a major funder, I have every confidence we will meet our target, he said.

The pool committee had also received estimates on the cost of the development and, while they were not tenders, indications were that it could be built for $14 million not the $15.1 million that had been originally estimated, which would reduce the amount needed.

The same formula would be used on a pro rata basis for the funding required.

Mayor Alan Livingston said he could fully appreciate the challenge the fundraising committee was faced with, particularly in the current economic climate.

At the end of the day the process we are following will determine the level of public support for the project, he said.

ENDS

For further information contact

Lisa Nairne

Senior Communications Advisor

Ph: 07 872 0062 or 027 532 1760

Email: lisa.nairne@waipadc.govt.nz