Public have their say on proposed City Mall plan

Christchurch people have been quick to air their views on the proposed City Mall plan, with the final submission count hitting 736.

Council yesterday discussed all public feedback on the plan and were presented a summary of responses by staff which identified a range of views.

"Not surprisingly the road through High Street and the movement corridor through the western end of Cashel Street received the most comment," says Council Senior Planner Maurice Roers.

"However, people also discussed other issues like better areas for youth, more green space, cycle access, more facilities and new and different shops; putting the tram though the area was the most popular suggestion."

Based on the public's feedback, changes will now be made to the proposed City Mall plan and be presented back to Council on 5 December.

"Any changes will try to include the desires of all groups while balancing their different needs," Mr Roers says.

City Mall designers Isthmus Group, who listened to all oral submissions, proposed some new ideas and possible next steps in the design, including: : * A 'green promenade' along Cashel Street, and * A High Street 'processional' - to reinforce the links from Cathedral Square to Sumner and the Port Hills.

Issues the Council want addressed in the new plan include:

* Sustainability, * The needs of youth in the area, * Changing the Stewart Fountain, and * Possibilities for the tram in the area.

Mr Roers says Council is keen for the plan to be flexible so it can change with time and to suit the needs of Central City users.

ENDS

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