Save Our Arts Centre Claims Significant Victory

Save Our Arts Centre Claims Significant Victory

The High Court has granted urgent hearing time to Save Our Arts Centre Inc (“SOAC”) in its bid to stop the building of the proposed School of Music at the Christchurch Arts Centre.

“A Court conference was held with Justice Fogarty of the Christchurch High Court today to discuss when SOAC’s injunction application is to be heard” said SOAC spokesperson Dame Ann Hercus.

The Court recognised that it was important to deal with matters urgently and that the injunction application should be heard well before the resource consent hearing.

The University, Arts Centre Trust Board and Christchurch City Council refused to delay the resource consent hearing from its February date. As a result SOAC’s injunction application will be heard in the Christchurch High Court on 21 December 2009.

Dame Ann said SOAC was prepared for the hearing, and was not surprised the Court had recognised the importance of urgency.

“We are glad we now have a timely opportunity in Court to put a stop to this project before the consent hearing. Proceeding with the hearing with its large costs would be a pointless waste given SOAC believes the Music School cannot legally go ahead. We look forward to the Court resolving matters and putting a stop to this project. Watch this space!”

ENDS

© Scoop Media