​Cromwell events centre project advances

The Cromwell Memorial Hall and Events centre has edged closer to the detailed design phase, subject to some additional reporting to the Cromwell Community Board about how the centre is going to operate and any rating implications.

At the community board meeting yesterday (Monday 8 May 2023), a number of steps were taken to keep up the momentum of this much-anticipated project.

At the meeting, the board approved the developed design and the commencement of detailed design.

They also approved the demolition of the existing hall building and appropriate salvaging, and the procuring of construction and demolition services.

The completion of the detailed design phase was dependent on the old hall being demolished. Community board members were in agreement there could be no unnecessary delay so that the geotechnic work, which had been carried out around the old hall this year, could be completed on the new site to determine structural requirements.

The first five elements of the original recommendations from A-E were moved, with new recommendations and amendments to recommendations moved and passed as follows:

F. Notes that the 2021/31 Long Term Plan funds the Cromwell Memorial Hall project at a cost of $31.5M and that the developed design estimate is now expected to be $42.849M.

G. Notes the shortfall in project funding of $11.349M of which $5M is expected to be met from external funders that are to be confirmed in November 2023 and that the remaining $6.349M is proposed to be funded by way of by land sales from the Cemetery Road industrial development.

Furthermore:

H. Prior to approval of the detailed design, the Board receives for its approval:

i. The proposed operating model for the facility

ii. The projected operating and maintenance costs

iii. The likely rating implications going forward.

I. The Board notes the district review of museum services and recommends to Council that it considers the Cromwell Memorial Hall project in that review.

J. Authorises the Chief Executive to do all that is necessary to give effect to the resolution.

Council staff will report back to the community Board in the near future.

For more information on the project go to:

Cromwell Memorial Hall & Events Centre | Let’s Talk Central Otago (codc.govt.nz)