Work begins on Linwood Park Village

Work began today on turning part of Linwood Park into a temporary village for people whose homes have been severely earthquake-damaged, with the first units to be ready for occupation by early July.

The work will include site preparation and the laying of foundations for up to 40 portable homes.  Some preliminary work for drainage has already been carried out on the site.

Council Programme Manager Stronger Communities Alan Bywater says the Linwood Park Village is needed because a significant number of people will not be able to stay in earthquake-damaged homes or alternative accommodation for much longer. There are also people who will need to relocate for several weeks or months while their homes are repaired or rebuilt.

The village will comprise a mix of two, three and four bedroom units. Portable homes will be fully serviced just like any other normal residential neighbourhood.

Many of the worst affected homes by the earthquake are in Christchurch’s eastern suburbs. Mr Bywater says the Linwood Park site was chosen to ensure that keep people can stay involved with their existing community, and can remain close to their schools and local services.

The temporary village will be dismantled when it is no longer required and the park returned to its original condition, or better. 

Mr Bywater says some sports and training grounds will be affected. “Building temporary villages is an extraordinary measure which has had to be taken as a result of the earthquake and Christchurch City Council is arranging alternative locations where necessary.”

He says care has been taken during planning for the village to ensure that residents and park users will have easy access to the rest of the park.

For more information about temporary accommodation and the Linwood Park village call 0800 673 227 , visit www.quakeaccommodation.govt.nz