More sports half-courts may be developed in the Upper Clutha as Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) staff continue to juggle budgets to supply community facilities.

A QLDC spokesperson told the Wānaka App the council currently has a tender out to market for the construction of a basketball half-court at Lake Hāwea Community Centre. 

“The new location will provide a dedicated space for the hoop already there and enable more use throughout the day and evening,” the spokesperson said. 

The half-court will be funded from the QLDC Sport & Recreation renewals budget.

At a recent community services workshop QLDC staff discussed a plan to design standard half-courts to keep budgets down.

No consultation has been undertaken with sports groups as yet, but council is aware of a “community desire for accessible, informal facilities” such as half-courts at Pembroke Park, Allenby Park, and Luggate, the QLDC spokesperson said.

He was cautious in responding to future plans, however.

“With the exception of the half-court at Lake Hāwea Community Centre, funding is limited in the current Long Term Plan. 

“Hence, while we’re not currently in a position to provide specific information regarding timings and funding, we’re working to identify potential options,” he said.

PHOTO: Supplied