Waikato Approves $6m For Cycling Centre

Waikato Regional Council has today voted 6-3 in favour of the controversial $6 million funding request to help build a national cycling centre of excellence, including a velodrome, near Cambridge.

The National Cycling Centre is a $28 million infrastructure development of which the Government is providing a $7 million cornerstone investment.

Council chairman Peter Buckley said it had been a difficult decision, but one which had been made by councillors who had a complete picture of the proposal.

“We have heard from those in favour of the proposal, who point out that it is supported by the Government through $7 million funding and provides a unique opportunity that will benefit the Waikato region.

“Those opposed to the proposal have told us that it is unaffordable in the current economic climate and they believe it is a facility for elite athletes and not really for the community,” he said.

The council had considered:

• the individual and collective submissions of the community
• an independent telephone survey
• economic impact assessments
• financial projections
• capital costs
• ownership and governance issues
• the critical success factors of velodromes internationally.

“We have read volumes of information and an unprecedented number of public submissions,” Cr Buckley said.

The council has approved the funding by way of an internal loan from the investment fund to be repaid over 20 years by a flat region-wide rate. This means ratepayers will pay an estimated $3.18 per annum.

Cr Buckley said the national cycling centre of excellence would create a hub that brings new investment to the region, celebrates achievement, encourages participation in physical activity and provides opportunities for young people.

“In making our decision to support the velodrome we care confirming our intent to partner with central Government, local government, business and the community on initiatives that will help to make the Waikato successful.”

Sports Minister Muurray McCully says there had been a careful tender process managed by SPARC.

“They have advised the Waikato’s Home of Cycling Trust that it has won the tender process since it received the support of the Waikato Regional Council today.”

“The tender process for the national cycling centre was competitive and I am aware several other groups have missed out. However I thank them for their patience while SPARC undertook the tender process,