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The restoration of the earthquake-damaged Christ Church Cathedral has taken a major step forward, with the consent given for reconstruction plans.
The Christchurch City Council approved the next stages of work on the earthquake-damaged landmark, including restoration of the building, seismic strengthening, construction of a new visitor center, and removal of the war memorial.
Project manager Keith Paterson said consent meant the building’s future was now more secure.
“This means that the reinstalled cathedral can be stronger and safer than ever, while preserving and protecting the heritage features that have made this one of New Zealand’s most recognizable historic buildings.
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“Having this consent granted now means that we will be able to start some strengthening work while we stabilize the cathedral.”
CHRIS SKELTON / Things
An 18-ton steel frame, complete with a printed banner showing what the restored facade will look like, was placed over the broken western end of the cathedral earlier this month.
The project includes a new visitor center to the north with a cafeteria, museum and retail space, along with a Cathedral Center to the south, which features a function room, amenities and administrative offices.
The total cost of the project is now $ 154.3 million, up from the original budget of $ 104 million estimated by a government task force in 2016. The project group already has $ 103.1 million, leaving a deficit and a fundraising goal of $ 51.2 million.
STACY SQUIRES / THINGS / Things
The restoration of the cathedral could be completed from 2028.
The cathedral is now being stabilized with large steel frames installed on the outside of the building. This phase is fully funded, will cost around $ 11.8 million, and will take approximately two years.
The next phase is strengthening and reinstallation. Funding should be available for that phase by the end of next year, the new buildings in mid-2022 and for the new tower in mid-2023.
Supplied
Conceptual images of the Christ Church Cathedral reinstatement plans in Christchurch.
Christ Church Cathedral Dean Lawrence Kimberley said the consent meant the building was “one step closer to regaining its spiritual significance.”
“This is an early Christmas gift that brings 2020 to a positive end. We know that progress will continue apace and we are anxious for the Cathedral, in all its splendor, to once again adorn the Plaza ”.
