Fresh start for Heathcote community facilities

The first step towards a new combined facility, replacing the much-loved, earthquake-damaged Heathcote Community Centre and the Heathcote Valley Community Library, begins on Monday 28 July.

Demolition will begin on the Heathcote Valley Community Library at 8 Martindales Road, followed by the demolition of the Heathcote Community Centre at 45 Bridle Path Road at a date to be determined. Following a period of consultation and design, construction of the replacement facility will begin at a Heathcote Valley location yet to be determined.

“The Heathcote community is close-knit, and it’s clear that the loss of these two facilities has left a big gap over the last three years,” says Darren Moses, Facilities Rebuild Portfolio Manager at the Christchurch City Council.

“That’s why we’ve taken this opportunity to consolidate them into something more workable. It will be a volunteer library and bookable meeting place under one roof – a one-stop shop for parents, children and older people alike – and we think it’s really going to work for the community.”

The combined insurance proceeds for the two buildings is $807,000 and this will cover both the demolition of the buildings and the construction of the new combined facility. The Hagley–Ferrymead Community Board will have final approval of the building design.

Following feedback received from the Hagley–Ferrymead Community Board, the sites will be left in a community-friendly condition, with the demolition as sustainable as possible and including community involvement where possible.

For more information about the Council’s Facilities Rebuild programme, please visit www.futurechristchurch.co.nz

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