Council requests pause on Cranmer Courts demolition

Christchurch City Council today agreed to request the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority hold the demolition of Cranmer Courts for one month.

Mayor Bob Parker says the decision to request a pause in demolition plans recognises the significance of the building.

“This building is dearly loved by many in our community, and I recognise that this is an emotional issue. The request to CERA will reflect this – the Council is asking for a pause so that other options can be considered.

“We must recognise, however, that the Council has no decision-making role to play in the future of Cranmer Courts. This is a symbolic request, based on feedback we have received from the community. The Council does not have the legal ability to influence any decision.

“As a Council we recognise the immense value that heritage brings to our community and promise to work hard to concentrate on saving those buildings which we can. I think that many in our community will understand that the Canterbury earthquakes have created a very difficult situation for decision making around heritage.”

Councillor Helen Broughton, who moved the notice of motion to send a request for a moratorium on demolition, says that the Council needs to act on behalf of our  community.

“We need to advocate for the retention of our key cultural heritage and buildings and this is the time to do it. Even if some of the building has gone there is still a desire to save what remains. Other possible purchase offers could come through.

“This is a key heritage building for Christchurch in terms of heritage standing, location and Gothic Revival style,” Cr Broughton says.

Cranmer Courts is listed as a Category 1 building by the Historic Places Trust and Group 2 in the Christchurch City Plan.