Council approves new library, leisure centre site

Christchurch City Council has voted in favour of using part of Denton Park as the site for Hornby’s planned new library, customer and leisure centre.

Denton Park has been confirmed as the preferred site for Hornby's new library, customer and leisure centre.

However, the Council still needs to seek a change in the Reserves Act classification before development of the planned new facilities can proceed. The public will have the chance to make submissions as part of that process.

Denton Park was the site recommended by the Halswell-Hornby-Riccarton Community Board following consultation with the community and extensive investigations by Council staff into two other potential sites – Kyle Park and Warren Park.

The Board decided Denton Park was the best of the three sites because it was easily accessible, close to public transport, schools and shops, on solid ground and well suited to the development of a “civic heart’’ for Hornby.

Council Head of Recreation, Sports and Events John Filsell said most of Denton Park would be unaffected by the construction of the planned new facilities.

“The process to date has reinforced just how much the people of Hornby value Denton Park and we’re committed to ensuring it remains an important community and sporting hub,’’ Mr Filsell said.

“It is likely one rugby field and one cricket pitch will need to be shifted but it is our intention to provide upgraded facilities and fields elsewhere in the Hornby area. We’ll be working closely with the affected sports clubs to ensure any disruption is kept to a minimum.’’

The Council has set aside $35.7 million for the new facilities in Hornby, which are designed to serve the growing population in the south west of Christchurch.

More than 12,000 new homes are expected to be built in the south west by 2044.