A multi-purpose trail being built between Washdyke and Pleasant Point is drawing plenty of users in alert level 4 lockdown and it hasn't even been officially opened.
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$500,000 grant has given major impetus to the first stage of a new cycle trail from Timaru to Tekapo with a start expected early this year. We hope to go to tender next month, Central South Island Cycle Trail spokesman Simon Bird said. Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) approved funding of $500,000 in late 2020 for the building of a 14 kilometre-long first stage, a shared use path between Washdyke and Pleasant Point. It s part of funding to support walking and cycling initiatives around the country, an NZTA spokeswoman said. The project had earlier been kick-started when the Central South Island Cycle Trail successfully applied to the Timaru District Council s Covid-19 stimulus fund and received $226,358.
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Government funding of $11.6m was awarded to the Timaru District Council s Theatre Royal upgrade and Heritage precinct project. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, was in Timaru to confirm the Government support for the $23m project which ‘met the criteria of the Government’s ‘shovel-ready’ programme, in that it was ready to proceed and would create jobs. ‘‘The design and construction of the theatre upgrade and new (museum) facility is estimated to directly employ 155-210 people.’’ A planned $7.5m redevelopment of Alpine Energy Stadium received the biggest handout from the Timaru District Council’s stimulus fund. The Fraser Park Community Trust, which runs the facility, received $900,000 of the $1.85m available as the council culled 20 funding applications back to 10 successful projects.