Media Release – 19 September 2013

Crown purchases PGC site

The Crown has purchased the property where the Pyne Gould Corporation (PGC) building stood until it collapsed in the February 2011 earthquake.

The purchase has been made to incorporate the property at 233 Cambridge Terrace into the new North Frame as part of the Christchurch Central Recovery Plan.

In recognition of the significance of the site – where 18 people died in the building collapse and many others were seriously injured - the CCDU has written to the families of those who lost their lives to inform them of the development.

Christchurch Central Development Unit (CCDU) director Warwick Isaacs says the sensitivities involved with the site have been an important consideration for those involved in the planning of the North Frame.

``That is why we have been in contact with those affected families we have contact details for - to let them know about the change in ownership and to reassure them that access to the site will not change in the near future,’’ Mr Isaacs says.

``Decisions are still to be made about the longer term use of the site, but those involved in the design and planning for the North Frame have been very mindful of what occurred at the PGC site, and this will be reflected in any decisions that are made.’’

``I have committed to keeping those families informed on the key decisions that are made about the site.’’

In July, the CCDU announced the Crown had purchased the site where the Canterbury Television (CTV) building stood, for incorporation into the East Frame.

The future use for the PGC and CTV sites is a separate issue to the planning for the city’s Earthquake Memorial. Engagement with affected parties in regard to the Memorial is underway in a separate forum.

More information on the North Frame and Christchurch Central Recovery Plan can be found at www.ccdu.govt.nz.

ENDS

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