March 2008

Work to begin on Akaroa Museum storage facility

Work will begin later this year on construction of the new storage facility for Akaroa Museum thanks to a $200,000 donation from the Canterbury Community Trust.

The new $850,000 custom-designed and built facility is critical to protect and preserve the historical treasures of the Banks Peninsula community.

Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker says for some time, a lack of suitable storage space at the Museum has meant historical treasures have been inappropriately stored.

“There was an unacceptable risk of these being damaged, broken or destroyed.

“Restrictions on storage space have also been severely impacting on the Museum’s ability to acquire new and valuable historical items for its collection.”

The need for a custom-designed facility was recognised by the former Banks Peninsula District Council which committed funding of $500,000 to the project.

Mr Parker says the Community Trust’s generous donation recognises the value of protecting the heritage of this area and has enabled the Christchurch City Council to proceed with the project in the next financial year.

“We are grateful for this donation. Akaroa, as the donation recognises, is a very special place; it has its own unique history and it is crucial we ensure this is preserved for future generations.”

Other funding for the project has come from Council operating budgets and the sale of the on-site cottage.

Designed by Christchurch-based Wilkie & Bruce Architects, the new facility is sympathetic to the existing residential architecture of the neighbourhood. The building will be linked to the existing Museum which fronts Rue Lavaud.

ENDS

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