Latest update - May 2020

We would like to thank everyone that took the time to provide feedback on this proposal. Your feedback has provided Council with better insight into what residents, users and the wider community value about the Westbrook sports facilities and green spaces.

Council received 90 responses. From those submissions, we were able to identify a number of themes that will help to inform and develop any plans going forward.

Key themes expressed were:

• Protecting the amenity values for neighbouring properties
• Concerns about increased traffic
• Support for all-weather athletics facilities
• Support for open spaces, natural areas and the ecological value of the site
• Support for quality sport fields and recreation facilities
• Opportunities for clean-ups in neighbouring spaces
• Support for continued access to golf facilities

Proposal update:

Given the current COVID-19 situation and the potential impact on our community, Rotorua Lakes Council must focus on the district’s Build Back Better economic recovery plan.

As a result, the proposed Westbrook Sport and Recreation Precinct project timeline will be extended for it to be considered for the next Long-term Plan in 2024.

Council remains committed to achieving the district’s Vision 2030 goals of creating a city that has outstanding places to play and an enhanced environment for all to enjoy. However, the focus at this time must be on supporting our community through what may be a very difficult period.

The extended timeline will enable Council to continue with important investigation and planning work, and work with key stakeholders as well as potential external funders, to ensure the proposal’s master plan is in the best position to be considered for the 2024 Long Term Plan process.

In the meantime, Council will continue to work with the sport and recreation community to support its ongoing sustainability and making the best use possible of the current sports field network.

Council will keep the community updated as this proposal progresses in the future.