October 2023

Cromwell Events Centre – momentum continues

Another step forward in the realisation of the new Cromwell Memorial Hall and Events Centre has happened this month with the Building Consent application submitted to Council.

This now starts the Central Otago District Council’s process to gain approval to construct the facility and ensure it meets all current regulations.

Jasmax, the architects of the project, are approaching completion of the detailed design phase of the project, following endorsement of the developed design by the Cromwell Community Board at their May meeting. At the same time, work has been continuing with external funders to seek support for the project capital investment.

The tender process for the physical works (demolition and building) commenced on 18 September when the four shortlisted respondents from the initial registration of interest procurement process were invited to a site briefing by Council’s evaluation team. This team comprised representatives of Council’s property team and external consultants covering architectural and engineering disciplines. At the briefing, the respondents were given a more detailed brief of the project, invited to ask questions, given access to the site to get a feel for the surrounding area of the hall, and had the opportunity to better understand what will be required in their tender responses. Whilst on site it was also a good opportunity for Council to emphasise the need for the contractors to minimise disruption to the neighbouring properties throughout the project. Tenders close on 2 November and will then be evaluated by the team. This tender timeline means that the demolition of the existing hall will now be in early 2024 to give time for the winning tenderer to fully prepare the site prior to work commencement.

Until the tenders close, Council will be preparing the contract documentation to ensure all legalities are covered and ready for signing by both parties when the winning tender is confirmed. Discussions will continue with the museum to confirm how the relocation of artifacts will be undertaken when the time is right. Plans will be solidified on how the community can say goodbye to the hall before the demolition work starts.