$100,000 Community Support For The Dowse Extension

MEDIA RELEASE : 24 June 2005

$100,000 community support for The Dowse extension

The Community Trust of Wellington has announced its support for the redevelopment of The Dowse with a grant of $100,000.

Trust Director Frances Russell says that that The Dowse is an outstanding community facility that delivers benefits to the Wellington Region on many levels.

"Economically, culturally and socially The Dowse is a winner," says Frances. "One of the Trust's key objectives for the Region is that it be renowned for its cultural vibrancy, creativity, diversity and sophistication. In every way we believe The Dowse's redevelopment will deliver.

It was at a meeting with Mayor David Ogden that Trust Chairman Mattie Blackburn was introduced to the extension project. Mayor Ogden, a former Chair of the Dowse Board of Management, is an avid, longtime supporter of The Dowse.

"It's a bold project and a great opportunity for the Wellington Region. Hutt City can be proud of this initiative," says Mattie.

The redevelopment was also given a major boost with a Government grant of $1.969 million (incl GST) announced by Prime Minister Helen Clark last month.

The Hutt City Council also agreed to increase its contribution to The Dowse redevelopment project to $1.75 million (excl GST) in the Draft Long Term Council Community Plan.

"Construction of the $5.25 million (plus GST) project is likely to begin before the end of the year" said Tim Walker Director of Hutt City Museums.

"The very strong support The Dowse enjoys from the community and local businesses has definitely made all the difference," said Tim

Seven local companies are investing in the project, New World, Boulcott Hospital, Eskay/Hills Hats, Gee & Hickton, Thomas Dewar Sziranyi Letts, Sherwin Chan and Walshe, and Banks Shoes have pledged over $200,000 over a three year period.

"This gives Council and Government confidence that The Dowse is seen as being important to this region, and to Hutt City's continuing development," says Tim.

Trustees Executors is also supporting the project, acting as custodian trustee and Duncan Adams and Brook are contributing accounting services.

The Chairperson of The Dowse Foundation, Bob Moffat, says that the Foundation has raised over $1.2 million in pledges and contributions so far.

"We're delighted with where we have got to but we still have another $500,000 to raise," says Bob. "The contributions so far get the extension built. The final 10% of the $5.9million project is the all important fitout.

ENDS

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