High performance sports centre to come to Bay

The Mount Cosmopolitan Club building will be transformed into a High Performance Sports Centre in July. Photo/file

Construction for a High Performance Sports Centre in Mount Maunganui is set to kick off in July.

Tauranga City Council agreed in February to contribute approximately $1 million towards the High Performance Sports Centre on the basis Bay Venues Limited were able to source the remaining project funding.

The High Performance Sports Centre will cater for a wide range of athletes, sports and high performance organisations, sports science research and athlete medical support services.

It will complement Tauranga's existing facilities at Blake Park and other facilities that include Baywave, Mt Maunganui Hot Pools, ASB Baypark and ASB Arena.

Mayor Stuart Crosby said in a statement the overwhelming support for the project has come from a wide range of representatives from the sports world.

"Establishing this centre is a strategic move to invest in the future of the city and build community pride. It will also help to grow Tauranga's reputation by developing a venue that can cater to, and host, international sports stars and events in the Bay," said Mr Crosby.

Bay Venues Limited has reported to the Tauranga City Council that it has secured the requisite funds of $2.5 million and the final arrangements are being made.

Bay Venues Limited chief executive Gary Dawson said in the statement: "We are excited to be taking the next step in bringing this world-class venue to the people of Tauranga. It will be an asset for the city that will be recognised nationally and internationally as a great place for skill development and sporting career growth."

The due date for completion is end of December this year.