All-weather sports turf Debate

Community Wellbeing - Togetherness

Option 2

The construction of an all-weather sports turf is seen as crucial for enhancing community cohesion by providing a reliable venue for sports and events that bring people together, regardless of weather conditions. Residents believe that such a facility would not only meet the local demand but also elevate Nelson's status by enabling it to host significant tournaments, thereby fostering a stronger community spirit and increasing participation in sports. Additionally, the collaboration between different sports codes and the potential for shared use of the facility is expected to strengthen community ties and support the growth of local sports talent.

Table of comments:

Point No	Comment
378.2	Desperately need this!  And will bring the community together.
1050.5	Prefer to see NCC and TDC provide community facilities together to a higher standard befitting Nelson's position as the third largest urban centre in the South Island. It is notable that smaller towns like Blenheim and Timaru have better facilities than either Nelson or Richmond. Combined investments should be right-sized commensurate with our combined population.
1087.1	This is well overdue and an all weather turf is needed. The amount of games that have been called off not just because it is raining/the weather is bad but to "prolong the pitches or pitch conditions" is ridiculous and this is across all ages/gradesHaving an all weather turf/s like the Christchurch football center would not only be of benefit to local Saturday football games but it could also mean that Nelson could look at hosting tournaments like the Christchurch International Cup which then would benefit Nelson as a whole. All football clubs in Nelson are wanting facilities like this and I can see it being well used. 2 options for the turf location I believe would be Neale Park or guppy parks as the grounds here are so uneven, or if looking for a more "central" location for Nelson/Richmond could be Champion green
1162.1	An artificial turf in central Nelson (Guppy Park) close to the CBD is absolutely needed. It would give sport codes a reliable training and game surfaces regardless of the season and the weather. Grass fields in the area have been deteriorating due to poor maintenance, strain due to the weather (too wet or too dry) and due to overuse. A turf would help give these pitches a rest and reduce cost of maintenance.Young kids from all different walks of life would benefit from a turf and access to it. Talking of a safe space to do sports / be active. Not to forget about the opportunities a good turf would provide to aspirational kids / teenagers pursuing a career in sports. They need modern facilities to develop their skills at a good level. It’s a big investment but its well worth it. It would also see sport codes work together. It’s a bo brainer.
1335.1	This facility would be an asset to the City.  It would be well used and it should be placed in the City area (Neale Park).
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