Increased population growth drives demand for leisure and sporting facilities in Amberley
Progress on Stage One of the Amberley Eastern Reserve development is on track with earthworks underway to construct the new embankment and sports field.
The Amberley Eastern Reserve will be Hurunui’s newest public reserve, catering for both current and future population growth.
Set in a rural-residential area bounded by Kingfisher Avenue, Fantail Avenue and Double Corner Road, the master concept includes an international size cricket oval with associated facilities.
Amberley Councillor, Michael Ward, says that the progress at the reserve is a significant milestone and a physical representation of the rapid growth that the area is experiencing.
“It is really important that we [the council] recognise and plan for the substantial level of growth that Amberley has been experiencing. It is a great town and we need to ensure that that it remains accessible, attractive and vibrant, meeting everyone’s needs, now and into the future.”
The total budgeted cost of the reserve, including land purchase is $1.45m, funded largely through development contributions (90%), with a smaller share (10%) funded through the Amberley Ward amenity rates.
When fully developed the reserve will include:
- A bunded embankment for public viewing
- A full sized international cricket oval
- A junior cricket pitch
- Practice facilities for cricket
- Toilet facilities
- A multi-use pavilion
- An easily accessible shed to provide storage for maintenance facilities
- Drainage and irrigation
- Bollards or fencing around the perimeter of the site
- Car parking area
- Amenity planting and landscaping
- Lighting, including flood lighting
- An all-weather path through the reserve.
