Countdown on for Club development

Alfred Taylor Developments managing director Nic Smith says a line in the sand has been set as the firm reaches out for a serious show of interest.

Addressing more than 250 people at Marlborough Lines Stadium 2000 last week Nic talked about ambitious plans for the landmark building.

But he says they need more certainty around the concept is needed to bring their idea of a regional centrepiece to fruition.

“Subject to some serious shows of interest, we’re coming across a juncture at end of August where we will be drawing a line in the sand to make a decision on this because we have to think commercially for ourselves about what we want to do,” he said.

“Ultimately, what we're looking for at the end of it is an entity to come forward and say, Hey, we're really keen on this idea and keen to take the lead on it.’”

“We’ve done a hell of a lot of donkey work to get to this stage and see ourselves as a support company behind the scenes.”

Addressing more than 250 people at a Dragon’s Den style presentation last week at Marlborough Lines Stadium 2000, Nic said there were plenty of opportunities.

Held in conjunction with the WinePro Trade Fair, the Welcome to Blenheim evening outlined plans for the 130-bed hotel and entertainment centre.

Linking to the ASB Theatre, plans could also include a new heritage centre as part of council’s plans to launch a new Heritage Marlborough Brand.

Nic says six months of feasibility studies show the ideas stacks up.

But local businesses need to buy in to the concept to help bring the projects together.

“We're giving a blank canvas with a concept that we believe that Blenheim, Marlborough and New Zealand needs.

“But it's needing others to come out of the woodwork to join the ride with us, being involved with a wine and food experience,” Nic says.

“People will still enjoy going to the cellar doors or getting out in their bikes, and why not in beautiful, Blenheim weather - I think that's a no brainer.

“But from people who only have a day in the region trying everything Marlborough in one place, to people who want to come and sample before deciding on their cellar door tour stops or going to the theatre, it’s a massive opportunity for produce, seafood, wine and food pairings, what Marlborough can offer to the world.”

“We've got a concept with some pretty pictures, and it's probably a bit grandiose but we're better to start somewhere and aim for it.

“We’re open to everyone’s interpretation of the bricks and mortar and we’d love to hear from interested parties.”