What is the aim of Project City Mall?
The new design is more than just a repaving project: it is an overhaul of the entire space, including the development of recreation and events areas, more plantings, new street furniture, improved lighting, public artworks and the removal of two air bridges.
Project City Mall was launched in August 2007, after the City Council agreed to fund the renovation of the ageing public pedestrian mall. It is more than 25 years since the last significant public investment in the area, which is considered one of Christchurch's most important public and commercial spaces.
Background
In 2006 as part of the Long Term Council Community Plan process, the Council agreed that the City Mall area was in need of renovation and allocated funding for the upgrade of this public space.
Based on that decision, Council staff and consultants developed a renovation plan for the City Mall that incorporated feedback received during a preliminary consultation process. This plan was released for formal comment in September 2006 and public hearings where held in November 2006. Following from this consultation, the plan was further modified to respond to public feedback and a final design was developed. This design was approved by Council on 14 December 2006 and staff were directed to proceed to implementing the renovation plan.
Since that time, detailed designs and construction documents have been developed and Council has entered into its first Alliance contract to deliver the City Mall project. The Alliance originally consisted of representatives from Council, designers Isthmus Group, and contractor Downer EDI Works. The Alliance has a dedicated leadership team which meets regularly and functions as the governance body.
Sustainability
Enhancing the environment and making Christchurch more sustainable are key aspects of the City Mall project.
The aim of the renovation project is to encourage people to come into the Central City and make the are a more vibrant, attractive destination. This is in line with the goals set out in the Greater Christchurch Urban Development Strategy, which outlines a 35-year plan to make our city a better place to live, work and play.
Project City Mall ties-in with other Central City projects, like the development of the Lichfield lanes, helping to encourage walking and cycling and at the same time improving access to our commuter bus network.
Beyond these broad objectives, other specific examples of Project City Mall’s commitment to sustainability include
- Use of local, long-lasting materials (i.e. low energy use)
- Increased trees and planting
- Use of permeable pavers to help manage storm water
- Re-use of materials removed from the current Mall
- Recycling stations
- Cycle racks.
