Christchurch City Council drops New Brighton waterpark plan

Christchurch City Council has chosen not to back the development of a waterpark in the coastal suburb of New Brighton, instead backing signalling support for the development of small scale aquatic facilities, such as salt water pools.

Advancing the Draft New Brighton Master Plan, the Council has agreed to continue working with stakeholders towards providing a variety of attractions and public space improvements that would revitalise the commercial core of New Brighton.

In one of his final acts as Mayor, outgoing Mayor Bob Parker said it is important that work on the revitalisation of New Brighton continues, stating "by demonstrating its support for a range of small scale and complementary attractions, the Council is reaffirming its commitment to the recovery and development of New Brighton as a place with special character and appeal; alive with recreational facilities, cafes and restaurants, shops and businesses."

Key resolutions agreed by the Council included:

In principle support for the development of a variety of appropriately-sized and privately funded attractions and public place-based initiatives in New Brighton.

Working with key stakeholders to develop a preferred model of small-scale public and private aquatic initiatives, improvements to the public and private realm, and funding options for these.

Considering options for consolidating commercial zones in New Brighton.

Approaching the Prime Minister's Earthquake Fund to see if there is an opportunity to use the proposed $6.5 million grant separately from the Eastern Recreation and Sport Facility.

The Council also resolved to recommend to the incoming Council that:

The proposed Eastern Recreation and Sports Facility is located wherever it best meets the needs of the communities of the East.

Use of the Transformational Fund be considered to assist revitalisation initiatives.

The use of additional funds to support revitalisation of New Brighton through the next Long Term Plan be considered, if good progress is being made by business and landowners to rejuvenate the centre.

24th June 2013 - CHRISTCHURCH CITY COUNCIL PLANNING COMMITTEE RECOMMENDS NEW BRIGHTON WATERPARK STUDY