Leadership United Behind Stadium: Time For Urgency Is Now

Community leaders have united in support of construction starting on the new Otago Stadium next year in time for the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

Dunedin Mayor Peter Chin, Otago Regional Council Chairman Stephen Cairns and Stadium Trust Chairman Malcolm Farry said now was the time for the region to seize the opportunity to showcase the region to the world and build a community asset of enduring value.

“Time is of the essence. The Councils have set a target that 60% of private sector funding be committed by 2 February 2009.

“We now need the 1,600 individuals and businesses who have registered interested to convert those into signed contracts as early as possible to give confidence we can meet the February deadline.

“We thank the over 350 people and organisations who have already signed up for lounge memberships and corporate suites in the Otago Stadium.

“Our challenge is simple. Let’s join together and get behind the stadium.

“We’ve done the hard work, the land is secured, design is near-completion, a preferred contractor has been appointed, the University has made its commitment to build student and teaching facilities onsite.

“Together, we are sending a clear message to the country that Otago is determined to develop a modern, multipurpose, fully enclosed stadium for the benefit and enjoyment of residents and visitors. We are a region with a proud heritage and a bright future.

“The Councils are fully aware of the need for prudent management in the current economic environment. That means we have to look for opportunities for growth, to invest in projects that will provide enduring value to the region for generations to come and which will provide over 600 jobs at a time of economic uncertainty.

“We believe, given that the Otago Stadium project is well-advanced, it will be a strong candidate to attract central government investment as part of regional economic development and New Zealand’s preparation for 2011 Rugby World Cup.

“Dunedin and Otago cannot afford to miss out on the opportunities to host a wide range of events and the economic benefits they provide. We have to make our own luck as a region and create opportunities for a vibrant future.”

ENDS

© Scoop Media