Development timetable
Stage one
The" fastest track in the country" was opened by 1500 metre Olympic medallist Nick Willis in October 2008. The all weather athletics track has Class II status - one of only three in the country - meaning a world record can be broken there.
"The track is fast, really fast. Lots of records will be broken here"
- Nick Willis
The track is used by hundreds, sometimes thousands, each week during the athletics season. It will be supported by a 2500 seat grandstand which is uniquely oriented, curving around the finish line, to enable viewing up the home straight. Construction of the grandstand, due for completion in mid 2010, marks the end of stage one of the Park.
Subsequent staging
All subsequent development at the Park, except the grandstand, is subject to raising sufficient funds. The following table is an estimate of when development might occur:
|
Athletics track |
Complete - successful first season in 2008/09 |
|
Grandstand |
Will be completed in September 2010 |
|
Unison Velodrome |
If Hawke's Bay is endorsed as preferred region and if funding targets are reached, construction will commence in the latter half of 2011. The Velodrome has an 18 month build time |
|
Netball |
A high priority. Earthworks are due to commence Jan 2010 so the courts can be available for the 2010 season. Ability to meet these dates is dependent on funding success between now and the end of 2009 |
|
Football |
Grass will be sown in Spring with the fields available for use early in 2011 The artificial pitch will be developed as funding allows. |
|
Tennis |
Dependent on funding. |
|
Central building |
This is the biggest ticket item and dependent on some funding from central government. It is possible this may be developed in stages. |
The curving grandstand is an architectural feature and makes for great viewing of the athletics track.
The nearly completed grandstand. Seats are being installed in July and August.
Earthworks are under way for the netball courts and football fields. Record wet weather has delayed progress but they're still expected to be available early in 2011.
