Three shortlisted design/build proposals for the new Network Waitaki Event Centre have been narrowed down to one, by the project board.

The company behind the highest scoring proposal has been invited to work with the project board to refine the design.

Waitaki District Council Major Projects project manager Erik van der Spek said it would be pre-emptive to name the preferred company until negotiations have been satisfactorily completed, and the board is in a position to award a contract.

“Once a contract has been awarded, they’ll be named. Construction time from there is around 24 months,” he said.

Project board chairman Geoff Douch said they had received some exciting designs.

“Our job now is to refine this to ensure the facility delivers the best fit for our community within the project budget.”

To achieve this, the project board will meet with representatives from user groups, to review the concept and hear their thoughts.

Meanwhile, the Waitaki Event Centre Trust is closing in on its $32m funding target, with an application submitted to the Otago Community Trust.

Event Centre Trust member Adair Craik said this is a “key step forward”. 

“Conversations with the Otago Community Trust have been positive, and we anticipate a decision in September.”

Further applications are planned for a Lottery Community Facility grant and the Significant Project Fund, when they open.