Northlanders support stadium project

Northlanders have given their overwhelming support to a proposed regional events centre being built at Okara Park, Whangarei.

The final decision on whether Northland ratepayers will fund the $30 million centre is now in the hands of regional councillors.

Of the 5000 public submissions sent to the Northland Regional Council on the proposal, 69 per cent were in favour. The NRC heard many of the submitters speaking to their submissions over three days last week as part of its annual plan process. The final day of hearings is today.

The positive backing follows an earlier NRC phone survey of over 1000 Northlanders which found 56 per cent wanted the centre being built.

About 160 people spoke to their submissions at Awanui and NRC headquarters in Whangarei last week with the majority voicing their opposition. Another 60 were expected to speak to their written submissions at the council's Water St venue today.

NRC members have pencilled in a decision date of June 22 when they plan to hold a special meeting to discuss the plan.

- NORTHERN ADVOCATE (WHANGAREI)