Is the Stadium definitely going ahead?
A final decision of the funding of the stadium has yet to be made by the DCC. Currently, the Carisbrook Stadium Trust and its Consultants are providing DCC with comprehensive and detailed Status Reports on every aspect of the Project as per a set of resolutions passed by the DCC in June of this year. These Reports will be posted on this site as soon as they are complete.
Why do we need a new stadium rather than refurbishing or improving Carisbrook?
Carisbrook has a long and proud history and resides in the hearts of most of us in the region. However, a meticulous examination of the feasibility of upgrading Carisbrook revealed that, for a great many reasons, it was simply not a feasible or economic option.
Why is the University involved?
The University of Otago, have become shareholders in the multi-purpose Stadium, because it offers the University the opportunity to extend the current campus through Logan Park, along the Water of Leith, and down to the boat harbour. The Stadium development will offer the University the opportunity to cement the link between “town and gown”.
From Carisbrook Stadium Trust’s perspective, the University will contribute towards the cost of the land, and there will be building synergies between both parties.
How is the stadium being paid for?
DCC have confirmed their funding share of $85m conditional upon certain terms and conditions.
ORC have been requested to fund $37.5m of the cost and it will shortly be making a final decision on this.
Community Trust of Otago have already signalled in-principle agreement to accept an application for $10m of funding which will be lodged early in 2008.
It is estimated that the University will contribute $10m for its share of land, the plaza area and efficiencies in constructing its facility adjoining the stadium. This, of course, excludes the cost of constructing buildings which the University will fund itself.
The remaining $45.5m comes from the private sector for things such as naming rights, sponsorships, corporate suites and lounges, membership packages and other products.
Will there be cricket played at the new stadium?
No, cricket will be played at Logan park. The new stadium will not, therefore, require an oval field which means we can have a rectangular ground which brings the spectators significantly closer to the action of the field.
The site doesn’t have much parking – isn’t that a problem?
No. A detailed parking study has been completed and its findings have concluded that the number of parking spaces required for the development will be provided. Also an advantage, is the proximity of the stadium to the CBD together with the addition of new cycle tracks and walkways as well as the provision of daily and frequent shuttle bus services mean that parking need not be a concern.
You say that it isn’t a stadium. Why do you keep calling it a stadium?
Good question! Simply, because we have yet to resolve the issue of just what to call the wider site and the stadium that sits on that site. We are currently in discussions with potential sponsors of various aspects of the facilities and are involving them in that thinking. So watch this space!
Won’t big events create traffic chaos?
The Traffic Impact Assessment report has detailed that the current traffic network copes extremely well , and in fact only minor recommendations were made to alleviate congestion when the Stadium is built.
As with every other Stadium in the world, heavy traffic is inevitable for any major event but this project will benefit from a comprehensive and carefully developed traffic management plan which was developed at Masterplan and Feasibility stage. If anything, the traffic assessment report has highlighted that the Stadium location is ideal for a development of this type given the current infrastructure, so the trust do not envisage this being an issue.
Who is going to build the stadium? Will they be local?
That is not yet decided. There are a number of options in terms of process for selecting, for example, the main contractor and this is an issue that will be finalised very shortly. Whatever the approach taken, we are working hard to ensure that local companies including sub contractors, etc., together with trades people, are at the forefront of the construction of this project.
Will the stadium be ready for the 2011 Rugby World Cup?
Whilst there are challenges and risks associated with the programme, currently completion in time for the Rugby World Cup is achievable.
I don’t like rugby or rock concerts so what’s in it for me?
The stadium will offer a great deal more than rugby and rock concerts. Theatrical productions and music of all types are likely to be on the menu together with a wider range of sporting events than the city or the region has ever seen. Arts, cultural and social events will also happen and the range and nature of these is growing all the time. Beyond this, the site itself will offer a range of food and beverage options, relaxing walks. One way or another, there will always be some reason to visit the site on most days and in most weather! |
