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Christchurch tram loop nears completion
26 June 2014
Christchurch tram loop nears completion
As part of Christchurch Council’s 2014/15 Annual Plan an additional $1.69 million will be included in the capital programme to enable completion of a second tramway loop along Oxford Terrace, down Cashel Mall, High and Colombo Streets to Cathedral Square.
Welcome Aboard managing director Michael Esposito welcomes the Council decision saying, “This is a major step forward for the recovery of the central city linking the various shopping precincts. It also gives locals and visitors a reason to rediscover the central city.”
Mr Esposito said there were many people working behind the scenes to get the approval through, “With their hard work it’s looking likely that we’ll have the extended loop to be in operation in time for the Cricket World Cup in February 2015.”
“We’ve seen great interest and demand from our inbound travel trade partners who are keen to promote what was a well loved experience for visitors,” said Mr Esposito.
Post earthquake changes saw Stage One - a new but shortened linear city route starting at the northern end of New Regent Street, through Cathedral Junction, across Cathedral Square and down to Canterbury Museum and back. This started in November 2013 and was offered at a reduced fare.
This November will see the completion of the original loop route extended through to Rolleston Avenue, Armagh Street and New Regent Street.
Funding towards the next stage will see the second loop further extended and trams pass along Oxford Terrace through the relocated Re:START mall, Cashel Street Mall to High and Colombo Streets looping around Cathedral Square. It’s a 45 minute trip through the rapidly changing CBD.
Christchurch and Canterbury Tourism chief executive Tim Hunter said, “This is fantastic news and a great example of the Council’s support of our visitor recovery strategy and the rebuilding of our tourism industry.”
“This news will also be warmly received by the international travel trade and a huge boost to our profile and visitor experience during the Cricket World Cup,” said Mr Hunter.
The Restaurant Tram and opportunity to dine on board a historic tram will also be back in operation from November.
From November prices will be $15 Adults and free for children 15 and under.
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