The Council became aware of intermittent water leakage issues at the building during some extreme weather conditions since the building became fully occupied. Specifically, investigations have identified issues related to weather tightness and thermal bridging. It has also been determined that the air conditioning system is not working to the Council’s expectations.

“Council understand our responsibility and the need to safeguard this asset on behalf of the Community. We continue to pursue compensation from associated parties, but as yet, no resolution has been confirmed,” said Mayor Donna Favel. 

The Council is currently working through the details of what work may be needed to address these issues, and the budget provision would provide for those repairs.

Mayor Donna Favel added that the proposed $2.5 million provision would ensure the Council has some contingency in place for when it will need to carry out those remedial works.

"Late last year, the Council began undertaking a detailed design of the remedial work required on the building to address all known issues and enable the building to meet the required operating specifications." 

"We appreciate the co-operation of building tenants - the Ashburton Art Gallery and Ashburton District Family History Group, and Council department, the Ashburton Museum, who have each been safeguarding their respective collections and will work to ensure safety of the same during any remediation of the building," she added.

The budget provision will be discussed at the Council meeting on Thursday, 27 June 2019, as part of the Annual Plan 2019-20.​