All-weather sports turf Debate

Community Wellbeing - Safety and Security

Option 2

Residents supporting Option 2 emphasize the safety benefits of an all-weather turf, highlighting that it provides a safer and more consistent playing surface compared to poorly maintained current fields, which are often unusable in wet conditions and pose injury risks. They also argue that the artificial turf would enhance community wellbeing by enabling more reliable and frequent sports activities, thus fostering greater community engagement and participation in sports. Additionally, the inclusion of facilities such as lockers at nearby mountain bike parks is suggested to increase security for belongings, further supporting community wellbeing and safety.

Table of comments:

Point No	Comment
1159.6	It would also be beneficial to upgrade facilities around mountain bike parks in the Nelson area. Much the same as Wellington has done with shower and toilet blocks and also enabling food cart/ coffee carts in the hubs. Lockers would also be beneficial as many school children bike at the parks after school and dump their bags in bushes for pick up later. This would also benefit tourists,.
1204.6	Central Nelson needs an all weather Turf that will re-invigorate local business through community events being held there & also provide a safer & sustainable surface than currently present.  Neale & Guppy parks are not well maintained & have not been the recipient of any upgrade of existing approach.  An artificial turf in Central Nelson would also alleviate the burden of having high amount of events on pitches that are not currently maintained well.
1277.6	An artificial turf is desperately needed in Nelson. Currently making do training on a dangerous pitch (Neale Park/North Road) that i'm told used to be a landfill. Most weeks in winter we can't even train at all and have to seek out a turf.
1487.1	Below is a submission to the Nelson City Council Long-Term Plan regarding the inclusion of artificial sports fields and lighting for northwest Nelson City. The submission is structured to present a clear, well-supported argument highlighting the benefits and necessity of these facilities. Submission to the Nelson City Council Long Term PlanDate:24/04/24Submitted by: FC Nelson Football Club Contact Information: 0277048226Executive SummaryFC Nelson Football Club (FCN) respectfully submits this proposal to advocate for a must-have, fit-for-purpose artificial sports fields and adequate lighting systems in northwest Nelson City (Guppy and Neale Park). The field will be for ALL footballers, competitive and social players. It will support the growth and development of football at all levels, putting our footballers on an equal footing with those from other regions we play with and against. It will provide a safe sports ground available 24/7, increasing participation in sport of more people in our community. It will increase the hours people can learn and play sport in the region, as it is not impacted by the rain like the current grass fields are. As a founding member of the Nelson Rugby Football Working Group, FCN are working closely with Nelson Football Rugby club, another cornerstone entity that provides a valuable service to our sports community. We are working together to provide the best environment for our combined sporting community, and both organisations support artificial turf at Guppy and Neale parks.  IntroductionAs a cornerstone of the community, FC Nelson, formed in 2011 by the amalgamation of the four Nelson City based clubs has been fostering the spirit of teamwork, resilience, and cultural diversity since its formation. We are the largest football club in Nelson City. We now celebrate nine senior teams including a women’s team, 21 Junior teams and over 100 playing fun and family football. Our commitment extends beyond football; we aim to build a healthier, more vibrant community through sports. The proposal for artificial sports fields and enhanced lighting facilities is driven by an urgent need for accessible, reliable, and safe sporting venues in northwest Nelson City.Current ChallengesCurrently, our community faces several challenges with the existing natural turf fields:1. Limited Playability: The natural grass fields are often unplayable during wet weather and require significant downtime for maintenance, which greatly limits their availability for practice and matches.2. Overuse: High demand for limited fields leads to overuse, causing further degradation and reducing their usability.3. Safety Concerns: Poor field conditions, especially during adverse weather, pose safety risks to players. Following rain, the fields are left with uneven surfaces increasing the risk of injuries. Benefits of Artificial Sports Fields and Lighting1. Year-Round Accessibility: Artificial fields can withstand extreme weather conditions and heavy usage, ensuring they are always playable for learning sport and competing in sport.2. Reduced Maintenance: These fields require less maintenance than natural grass, translating into lower long-term maintenance costs and more consistent playing conditions.3. Environmental Sustainability: Modern artificial fields are designed to be eco-friendly, conserving water and eliminating the need for pesticides or fertilizers. No carbon-emitting tractors or mowers or fertilisers required on an ongoing basis.4. Enhanced Safety: Improved surface consistency reduces injury risks, making sports safer for our youth and adult players. 5. Community Engagement: Increased field availability can host more community events, leagues, and tournaments, encouraging greater participation in sports and physical activities.6. Economic Development: Increased opportunities for South Island or national sporting tournaments that require turf. Proposed ImplementationWe propose the development of two high-quality artificial turf fields, complete with advanced lighting systems, in northwest Nelson City. This strategic location will serve football and rugby club members and also the surrounding communities, enhancing access for all residents. We take guidance and reference from the Nelson City Council Artificial Turf Feasibility Study RSL May 2020. The location at Guppy and Neale parks is strategically positioned to leverage the Council’s existing investment in improved lighting, the club hub and the existing facilities, and will help facilitate future sporting-community-driven investment in Guppy and Neale parks. Financial ConsiderationsWe note the proposal in the LTP to reduce field maintenance of other fields that aren’t artificially turfed. We would caution against this approach, due to the extensive game and training cancellations and player injuries that are experienced due to poor quality fields currently.  We acknowledge the substantial investment required for this project and propose exploring a combination of funding avenues:• Council Funding: Allocation from the LTP.• Grants and Sponsorships: Leveraging support from local businesses and sports organizations.• Community Fundraising: Engaging the local community through fundraising initiatives.     We are confident the share of the cost from the sporting codes can be successfully raised. ConclusionThe investment in artificial sports fields and lighting in northwest Nelson City represents a pivotal advancement in community and sports development. By addressing the current limitations, we can significantly enhance the quality of life and health of our residents, ensure the longevity of local sports, and foster a thriving community spirit.We thank the Nelson City Council for including artificial turf as a project in the LTP and thank you for considering this submission. We look forward to contributing towards a dynamic and inclusive future for Nelson City.Sincerely,Philip ThompsonPresident FC Nelson