Molyneux Stadium upgrade approved for LTP discussion

The Central Otago District Council has approved a staged $5.63 million investment to upgrade Molyneux Stadium in Alexandra over the next nine years.

The plan, funded by Vincent Community Board (VCB) reserves, includes $1.2 million for maintenance and refurbishment and $4.43 million for compliance upgrades such as earthquake strengthening, asbestos removal, fire safety, and accessibility improvements.

The draft 2025-34 Long-term Plan, to be consulted on in March 2025 and adopted in June, will outline the staged upgrades. Immediate works scheduled for 2025-26 include replacing cladding, exterior painting, roof repairs, and entry door replacements. Major compliance upgrades, including earthquake strengthening, are planned for 2027-28.

Earlier this year, $20,000 was allocated for a quantity surveyor to estimate the costs of necessary work. Assessments highlighted that the building is rated at 20% of the New Building Standard (NBS) in a seismic event and also has asbestos, accessibility challenges, and fire safety issues. While the stadium's overall condition is rated good to moderate, urgent remediation is required for some aging elements. Once upgrades are completed, the building’s lifespan is expected to extend to 50 years or more.