Deadline drives city rebirth forward

CHARLIE GATES

Architects rebuilding Christchurch think a new government task force will accelerate the rebirth of the city centre.

The task force, known as the Christchurch Central Development Unit (CCDU), has 100 days to develop a blueprint for the rebuild of central Christchurch.

Architects believe the rebuild has not yet begun in earnest, but hope it will kick in early next year.

David Hill, of Christchurch practice Wilson and Hill Architects, said the task force needed to provide certainty.

"There is a lot of interest in the rebuild, but it is still very much in a holding pattern. It is probably to do with the uncertainty about the inner city," he said.

"I think [the new unit] is a positive step forward. Since the council recovery plan went to Cera [Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority] there has been almost four months of silence and uncertainty, but this is a positive step forward.

"There is a great opportunity out there."

Warren & Mahoney managing director Peter Marshall said the task force needed to quickly identify where major assets would be built in the city centre.

"What will really move us forward is when major building works like the convention centre and the sports hub are under way, and when there is a critical mass and commitment by institutions, investors will follow. Those big moves haven't been made yet," he said.

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Deadline drives city rebirth forward