Tōmoana Showgrounds grandstand to be demolished due to safety risks

A start will be made on demolishing the grandstand at the Tōmoana Showgrounds in April next year, following confirmation that the building is unsafe and that repairing it is not a feasible option.  

Hastings District Council bought the showgrounds in April this year, following overwhelming community support for the purchase. Council ownership meant it would be officially designated a reserve which would protect it as a community green space. 

It was made clear during the public consultation that site works and the demolition of the grandstand may be required. 

In October this year, a building assessment showed significant damage to the grandstand’s roof, meaning the building was deemed unsafe and the tenants evacuated. Temporary repairs enabled the tenants using the offices at the rear of the building to return while further investigations were completed. 

Following an analysis of the benefits and risks of repairing the building, in consultation with current tenants, the decision has been made to demolish the building. Council will now go to tender to contract a demolition contractor.  

Council’s strategy and recovery committee chair Wendy Schollum said Council’s purchase of the showgrounds was widely supported by the community, and it was flagged that the grandstand may not be structurally sound.

“When we were making our decision on the purchase, a consideration was the future of the grandstand, given it was built in the late 1960s and potentially had structural issues.

“Subsequent investigations have shown the roof and public seating areas are unsound, and demolition is the most prudent course of action both to protect the safety of the public and as the most cost-effective solution.

“No decisions have been made as yet about what might replace the building – options for the future will be discussed with the park’s stakeholders.”

Land Rover Horse of the Year event manager Sophie Blake said that while they were naturally disappointed that the grandstand seating could not be used, they understood the decision made by Council.

“We believe that change brings opportunities, and we will make the most of this situation by finding alternatives that provide the same unique experience and atmosphere that our event is known for."

Hawke’s Bay Agricultural and Pastoral Society general manager Elisha Milmine said: “While the society is saddened by the loss of the legacy and history that the grandstand embodies, we understand the deconstruction decision was made with the safety of the community and all showgrounds users at the forefront, to allow the Tōmoana Showgrounds to be used for generations to come.”

6 December 2023

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