Friday 8 July 2011

Christchurch City Council staff and contractors will be working in the Port Hills early next week to review the status of red placards due to expire on 12 July.

Around 500 red placards were issued on the Port Hills as a result of geotechnical work after 22 February and these expire on 12 July.

Council General Manager Regulation and Democracy Peter Mitchell says it is likely that the majority of these will be replaced with notices that prohibit entry under Section 124 of the Building Act because of the extreme risk involved.

"The replacement process will be carried out at the beginning of next week. It is important that residents adhere to these notices for their own safety; the notices will be enforced," Mr Mitchell says.

"The Council is awaiting the result of geotechnical reports before decisions are made regarding the reoccupation of houses. Decisions will be made with input from a number of organisations through a robust process that has the safety of people and their homes as its main aim.

"The process for the removal of red placards is still being developed and peer reviewed by an international expert in rockfalls to ensure that it is consistent with international best practice. The earthquakes of 13 June have had an impact on timelines as the priority has shifted to the reassessment of danger and immediate remedial work. We will keep residents informed as this process is developed and timeframes established."

Rockfall hazards on Banks Peninsula

Residents and others using the Port Hills and Banks Peninsula for recreation are reminded that there is an increased risk of rockfalls following recent earthquakes.

Some areas have been closed to the public and people should adhere to signage and fencing. Care should also be observed in areas that remain open as hazards are not always immediately obvious. Hazard indicators include signs of rocks having moved, cracks and slumping of the ground or rock debris at the base of cliffs.

Walkers are advised to remain well clear of the tops and bottoms of coastal cliffs, bluffs and rocky outcrops. Boaties are also advised to remain well clear of tall coastal cliff areas. Wet winter conditions may increase ground moisture which can mean more slumping and the likelihood of slips and slope instabilities will increase.

Take care in all these areas and please comply with any signage and barriers. Port Hills track status can be checked on the Council website.

Residents of the Port Hills can sign up for regular email updates by sending their details to porthillsgeotech@ccc.govt.nz

ENDS

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