16 February 2011

Fendalton Library and Service Centre earthquake repairs to go ahead

Christchurch City Council has today (Thursday 16 February) given approval for earthquake strengthening and repairs to resume at Fendalton Library and Service Centre.

Following today's Council approval, it is hoped repairs will begin at the library and service centre next week and that it can re-open by June.

The facility closed in November last year after the results of a Detailed Engineering Evaluation (DEE) showed earthquake strengthening and repairs were needed. The assessment was carried out as part of the Council's commitment to carry out more intensive engineering assessments of its commercial facilities under its Facilities Rebuild Project.

Repair work began in November after the facility closed, but stopped when it became clear during further investigations that there was more damage than had previously been identified and it therefore needed more repairs. All major repairs to a facility must go to the Council for approval.

The Council today agreed to undertake enhanced earthquake repairs, such as securing light fittings, and strengthen the building to 100 per cent of the New Building Standard at an additional cost above insurance of $190,000. Insurance proceeds of $70,000 will cover some general earthquake repairs, such as cosmetic damage. Councillors also asked staff to report back on the feasibility of setting up a temporary service centre in the area.

General Manager Community Service Michael Aitken says, "It wasn't until the library and service centre was closed in November that we were able to look at the building in closer detail, which led us to realise that more repairs were needed than initially thought."

He said it was unfortunate that the facility would not be able to re-open this month as originally hoped. "We know how important this facility is to the local community and we are aiming to get it open as soon as we possibly can. All going well, we hope to be able to re-open it by the middle of the year."

Deputy Mayor Ngaire Button says this is good news for the community. "This work will give our community confidence in the ongoing strength of the building and hopefully a sense that we are moving forward with the city's recovery. I understand the community's desire to have access to library facilities because they, and books, are an important part of family life."

The nearby Papanui Library and Service Centre, corner Langdons Road and Restell Street, remains open.

For more information about the Facilities Rebuild Project, visit www.ccc.govt.nz/facilitiesrebuild

ENDS

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