July 1999 was the third wettest month on record for Christchurch and has caused difficulties in meeting all time schedules for the work being undertaken in Stage 4 of the redevelopment of Cathedral Square (the area in front of the Cathedral and southwest corner of the Square).

This in turn has meant a rescheduling of the areas of construction to avoid work in front of the Cathedral coinciding with the activities of the Cathedral Chapter.

Despite inclement weather over recent months, the contractor has progressed well with repaving Cathedral Square and is currently making up time.

However, possible visits by Heads of State following the APEC conference in Auckland, have further necessitated some reprogramming of the project works.

"The Council is prepared to reprogramme the work in the Square for the possibility of this once in a life time event. It would provide Christchurch with unprecedented international media coverage to profile our City to the rest of the world," said Cr Ron Wright, Chair, Projects and Property Committee, Christchurch City Council. Contd.

A decision has been made that in the event of a state visit no temporary finish will be applied to the areas the contractor is currently working in.

It is anticipated that in the event of a state visit, which requires the use of Cathedral Square, taking place, those areas in which work is occurring will be finished at least to the level of the compacted base course. This forms the specified base for the granite pavers and is considered suitable for temporary use by visitors to Cathedral Square during possible visits.

ENDS

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