The extensive renovation of the Mahurangi East Community Centre is set to be completed, and the centre reopen in February, thanks to a reallocation of funding from Rodney Local Board.

The centre is undergoing major repairs to fix weathertightness problems and strengthen its resistance to earthquakes. However significant issues have been discovered throughout the building that also need addressing. As a result, the Rodney Local Board has redirected $2.1 million from other long-term projects to complete the work.

Board chair Brent Bailey says the centre is an important asset for the Snells Beach community and is well-used by library users, many community groups, and has the only indoor court space in the area.

“The work must continue to fix the centre and future-proof it to meet the needs of the community now and for the future.

“It is a huge undertaking, and with all the unexpected issues, the scale of the project has grown and impacted the construction timeline and budget which has to increase significantly,” Bailey says.

The extensive changes include replacing the old roof which had substantial water damage with a new roof, fixing widespread structural issues such as load bearing walls, the balustrade and supports for the mezzanine floor, a new library floor, a new heating system, better security and access control systems, a new kitchen, and additional work to meet seismic and fire compliance requirements.

Bailey says,” After careful consideration and council staff advice, the funding has come from other multi-year projects which haven’t yet started construction. The total budget for each of the deferred projects is the same but construction has been delayed.

The list of deferred projects are:

• Helensville A&P Showgrounds – refurbish various buildings
• Muriwai Village Green – skate facility, courts and car park
• Riverhead War Memorial Park pavilion
• Waimauku Memorial Hall – stage 2 of the heritage hall restoration
• Refurbish various community buildings
• Te Hana Reserve – playground, court and skate facility.

Bailey says, “As a local board, we will keep a close eye on any assets which are impacted by the projects being delayed, and if there is a need, we can prioritise delivery through our future work programme.”

Read the full report in the Rodney Local Board Meeting agenda on 16 October 2024 at infocouncil.govt.nz (item 12)