Auckland Council’s Environment and Community Committee has approved a potential partnership with Western Springs College which could set a precedent for cooperation between the council and schools across Auckland.
Committee Chair Councillor Penny Hulse says the partnership with Western Springs College and the Ministry of Education secures an option to provide four indoor sports courts for school and community use as part of the rebuild of the college.
“This opportunity follows the government decision to consider the establishment of a new metro school model in high-growth urban centres like Auckland which would share amenities such as fields and indoor court facilities with the community,” says Councillor Hulse.
“In the Western Springs example, the council would contribute up to $2 million towards the design, engineering and build of the additional indoor courts, with a full business case for construction to be developed as part of the 2018-2028 Long-term Plan.
“This opportunity comes at a time of significant under-supply of indoor sports courts in Auckland, particularly the isthmus, and demand will only expand as our city grows.
“I believe this is a model council, government and schools across Auckland should consider to keep costs down and make best use of scarce land, sports and community facilities,’ says Councillor Hulse.
