Viewpoint - Square Moves

Always a source of controversy, Cathedral Square redevelopment has continued to progress and has now reached the final stage (Stage 5). The Christchurch City Council is now seeking comments on its proposed plan for Stage 5, the north western corner,  between Worcester Street and Colombo Street. It is the corner of the Square where most of the bus-stops used to be, and is home to a range of businesses including the Tower building (the old Government Life building), Chancery Arcade and DFS Galleria.

The plan of Stage 5 that is shown for public comment has been derived after discussions with taxi, bus and shuttle bus operators, and with a number of businesses in the immediate area.The Council is now interested in receiving public comment on the plan – both to gain opinions on the ideas proposed, and to gather any relevant information that may not have been considered so far.

The consultation website offers background information to square redevelopment, a plan and explanation of the proposed development, an aerial photograph of the area and an online comment form. Comments can also be made on a form available at the Civic Offices, Tuam Street,  and the Information Centre in the Square, or by writing or calling the project manager.

The closing date for comments is the 22nd August, 2003.

Buried Treasures

Spotlight on some localeye resources ... High Street - whats happening

Coffee, fashion, dining in style or al fresco, contemporary art, antiques, student funk, bookshops, video - High Street may sound a little confused but if you think creativity, culture and fun, you'll be able to find the true spirit of the street.

Anchored at one end by the Christchurch Polytechnic - notably its Jazz School  and Fashion Design and Technology courses  have buildings on High Street, and at the other by the Square, the High Street is a great place to stroll, eat, shop, check out contemporary art and design or just while away the hours at a cafe or bookshop. 

Fashionistas have embraced High as a shopping location including the successful label Tango.  Two Christchurch institutions - Alice in Videoland and Mckenzie and Willis can be found along the High. The cafe scene has a strong hold  down the High -   C1   Cafe , the Globe, Metro, High Street Cafe to name a few. Art galleries bloc, The Physics Room and Jonathan Smart Galleries add to the stimulus.

The streets around the High are full of other interesting shops - more secondhand bookshops,  restaurants, fashion, design and new apartments and bars.  The High Street has been a successful Central City Redevelopment Project    along  with  near by projects of the Central City Produce markets and the Bedford Row redevelopment its a part of the city undergoing stimulating change.