On the cheap -
'Terrace Standing Slammed
A $2.57 million project which created elevated standing room for events at Western Springs Stadium is still facing criticism.
In an era when nearly all major stadiums have been converted to seating for both customer comfort and safety you have to ask about a major section of terracing that is set up for large numbers of people standing," Councillor John Watson says.
Work on terracing finished late February.
The project was paid for by council group Regional Facilities Auckland.
An RFA spokesman says the project aims to create a safer space for event-goers.
"Historically the embankment has accommodated over 14,000 people at major events on uneven and very steep slopes. The terracing now provides capacity for those people to stand on level ground.
The project over ran by $70,000 because of RFA adding artificial turf to the terracing, saying it's safer than natural turf.
Part of the master-plan for Western Springs includes reshaping it for international test cricket
RFA also plans to move a number of buildings at the stadium "to provide as more pleasant park-like setting" for events.
"If Auckland is to continue attracting those high profile events then its stadium complexes need to be developed in such a manner that makes it attractive to those hirers."
- Auckland Central Leader, April 17.
