$55 million repair plan recommended for Taranaki's Yarrow Stadium

A $55 million repair plan has been recommended for New Plymouth's Yarrow Stadium as a result of structural instability identified following an earthquake in November 2016.

The venue’s two main stands have been out of action since last June after they were deemed an earthquake risk due to the damage caused by the Kaikōura earthquake.

The stadium is owned by the Taranaki Regional Council, which has recommended that it be repaired at a cost of $55 million, with an option to enhance its facilities for a further $14 million.

The Council considered eight options for the stadium, including demolition of the stands and construction of a new covered stadium at a cost of $271 million.

The proposal recommends that Yarrow Stadium’s East and West stands be repaired and it will now be put to the public. The selection of Option 2 allows the council to still consider Option 4, which would include the reconfiguration of the East Stand with extra seating and additional recreational facilities.

Lending for the repair work would be repaid through an annual targeted rate over 25 years.

Commenting on the proposal, Council Chairman David McLeod stated “the Council is committed to returning Yarrow Stadium to full operational capability as soon as reasonably possible.

“Option 4 looks to be the best in terms of the benefits it would bring but a co-funder would be needed, so Option 2 has to be our preferred option. We can go ahead with it but leave the door open for Option 4 if outside funding becomes available in the next 18 months.”

Public submissions hearings will now be held and a final decision on the stadium is set to be made on 21st May.

Image: Yarrow Stadium with Mt Taranaki in the distance.