The Ashburton Sports Hall on Tancred Street has been gifted to Council, and a report will assess future options for the building – including the possibility of selling it.

The hall has been owned and managed by the Ashburton Centennial Sports Hall Society since 1954, but the organisation is now being wound up.

Council Chief Executive Hamish Riach said members of the society had met with Council and requested that Council take over ownership of the sports hall.

“The society has done great work for our community over many years in keeping the sports hall operating, but changes to the law around incorporated societies have led them to offer the facility to Council.

“After the property is transferred to Council on 31 March, staff will prepare an options analysis for Councillors’ consideration, and this will include the possibility of selling, a potential outcome known and understood by the society.

“We’re conscious there are existing bookings and they will be factored in.”