15 August 2005

Great feedback to Council's Christchurch historic report

A Council report that presents Christchurch along the historic themes of Life in the City, The Built City, and Industry and Commerce has attracted great public feedback.

The Overview Thematic History of Christchurch is now available for viewing at the Christchurch City Library or online through the Council www.ccc.govt.nz/Christchurch/Heritage/Publications/ChristchurchCityConte xtualHistoryOverview/ website.

The project provides a broad overview and understanding of the city and its development, which is pivotal for the future identifying and managing of heritage in Christchurch.

"We've received a lot of compliments from a cross-section of Christchurch people who have been involved in the consultation process in preparing the report, and others who have read the draft report. "They say this is the first for heritage and history in Christchurch as it provides a comprehensive overview of Christchurch history that, until now, had been unavailable," says the Council's Senior Heritage Planner, Miriam Stacy.

The themes aim to "slice" up the city in a different way to get a sense of the city and its development over the years - giving a clearer indication of gaps in understanding regarding heritage listings.

The Council Heritage Team that commissioned the history project says the project has a dual purpose:
* to provide an overview of Christchurch and a general sense of the settlement to develop a history of the place through themes and,
* to help the Council review the existing City Plan heritage listings to identify any thematic gaps or potential items that should be added to the heritage inventory.

Thanks to the overview thematic history, the Council has already actioned many recommendations by adding items to a potential heritage item list. The Heritage Team is now researching the various items to build up information for the City Plan before any decisions are made on the final heritage item list.

ENDS

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