The ACT Government has concluded its evaluation of the updated proposal to build and manage an Ice Sports Facility in Tuggeranong.
Despite extensive discussions with the project proponents, the Government and the delivery partners were unable to reach agreement on the way forward, and as a result the Tuggeranong Ice Sports Facility will not proceed.
Throughout the process, the Government has been committed to working with the private sector partners to deliver a suitable facility within the funding envelope.
The updated proposal sought increased financial assistance from the ACT Government which was more than double the amount requested in the high-level proposal originally received. Having regard to the cost and unacceptable risks identified in the proposal, the Directorate assessed that the proposal as not representing value for money for the Territory.
The Government recognises the need for investment in sporting infrastructure in Tuggeranong and wants to ensure the local community does not miss out as a result of the tender outcome. The Government will now commit an equivalent amount of $16.265 million toward delivering and upgrading other sporting infrastructure projects in Tuggeranong.
Today the Government has invited ACT sporting clubs to share their sporting and recreation infrastructure needs with Government through Sport and Active Recreation Infrastructure Survey. The feedback from Tuggeranong clubs to survey will be considered as a matter of priority and will inform a package of investment equivalent to the ACT Government funding committed for the Ice Sports Facility.
The equivalent level of funding will be retained within Tuggeranong and committed towards delivering and upgrading other vital sporting infrastructure projects in Tuggeranong.
The Government will continue to work closely with the ice sports community regarding future opportunities for improvements to ice sports facilities. The requirement of an 'ice-skating rink suitable for national competitions' remains at the current Phillip ice skating centre site.
Minister for Sport and Recreation, Chris Steel, noted that while the outcome of the process is disappointing, the commitment to Tuggeranong's sporting community remains strong.
"The ACT Government came to the table ready and willing to make this project a reality, with the funding secured and a strong desire to see it built," Minister Steel said.
"The Government worked constructively with the proponents throughout the process and appreciated the time and effort invested by all parties. However, it was critical that the Government's significant investment delivered strong outcomes for the ACT community, and we simply could not reach an agreement that met those requirements.
"I have written to ice sports representatives today to advise them of this decision. I understand this news will be deeply disappointing for members of the ice sports community and others who championed this proposal. We recognise the importance of these facilities, and the Government will continue to engage with stakeholders on the future provision of ice sports in the ACT.
"I want to assure Tuggeranong residents that this funding is staying local. Every dollar of the funding committed will be invested to deliver and upgrade other sport and recreation infrastructure for Tuggeranong".
