Recreational Park for Ohakune?

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 1, Issue 18, 4 October 1983, Page 1

Recreational Park for Ohakune?

The Ohakune Borough Council is awaiting a report from the Town Flanner on the legalities of a proposal to lease the swimming baths and part of Jubilee Fark Reserve for development as a recreational complex for local residents, visitors and tourists. The proposal had been put forward in July by an Auckland chartered accountant, Mr John Saint Clair Brown, to float a company that would promote this recreational complex as, an all-year round facility. The proposed development would take place in three stages. Stage 1 would include: Development of all-weather tennis courts; preliminary up-grading of the existing swimming pool; design of a clubhouse to house an activity centre which would, in clude one or more squash courts. Stage 2 would see the completion of the swimming pool and surround as well as the possible installation of a putt-putt mini golf course. Stage 3 would include completion of the activity centre building and clubhouse and the possible addition of other facilities — such as skating rinks and plunge pools — annually to create a recreational park of consequence. Mr St Clair Brown said his company was prepared to fund all the capital works to ensure success of the project but was looking to Council for a long term lease on a nominal rental. The Ohakune Borough Council gave approval in principle to the proposal but decided to refer the matter to the Town Flanner and the Department of Lands and Survey on the legal question of leasing the Reserve. The Council also decided to approach the Ohakune Bowling Club whose clubhouse is adjacent to the proposed development.