The Counties Tennis Association indoor facility project has hit a couple of speed bumps that have delayed progress, but organisers are vowing to continue on with the plan.
A lotteries application has been placed on hold while a more detailed investigation around Geotech and stormwater for the resource consent process was finalised.
An application to Auckland Council’s Sports and Recreation Facilities Investment Fund (SRFIF) has also been declined.
Counties Tennis Association president Sharon Nelson said the knock backs are temporary setbacks, but they are confident the project will go ahead as planned.
“We want to take this opportunity to thank all those that wrote letters of support, took the time out to fill in our survey (results are on the Counties Tennis website for those interested) and backing and helping us with the next step towards our goal,” Nelson said.
“We have hit a couple of potholes along the way – it has slowed us down somewhat, but we are undeterred, and are pushing on to the next steps to make this a reality.”
Those next steps include getting resource consent, which ticks the lotteries application needs.
“We are continuing to work towards getting the resource consent submitted in time for the next lotteries round in January/February,” Nelson explained.
“The significance and importance of the resource consent, particularly in light of recent weather events, cannot be underestimated so thoroughness around a Geotech report and storm water report is required.”
The project has the support of the Franklin Local Board, who endorsed the application and said in their letter of support: “The local board supports the development as outlined at your deputation and we thank you for your continued efforts to broaden the use of your facility so that groups outside of your association can benefit from your work. Efficient use of resources is a key driver for the Local Board and your efforts clearly align with this.”
The Auckland Council SRFIF application was denied on its first attempt, but Nelson feels it isn’t because the project wasn’t worthy.
“There was obviously greater need elsewhere as we were advised that other applications had a higher priority,” Nelson said.
“We are undeterred by this and will be applying again for the next round in December 2022, and we will have taken on any feedback and have rallied more support around the project.”
In the meantime, Counties Tennis Association will continue to fundraise, and Nelson said there are some initiatives underway already.
“Champagne and canapés evening/fashion show open to the community. It will be a ticketed event, guest speaker (TBC), raffles, silent auction, at a local venue.
“The Pukekohe Lawn Tennis Club have asked for donations from their members to go towards the project and we are stoked with the generosity shown so far.”
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