Make-over plans unveiled for Christchurch's High Street

Earthquake-battered High Street is in line for a make-over that reflects its special character and position as one of Christchurch's most treasured central city streets.

Christchurch City Council is proposing to revitalise High Street from Cashel Street to St Asaph Street to address the damage caused by the earthquakes and to make the road more attractive and people-friendly.

As part of the upgrade work, the Council is also proposing to extend the route the tram operates on along Lichfield Street, down Poplar Street and back up High Street.

“We want to help restore the vibrancy of High Street and make it a more attractive place for people to visit and do business,’’ says Council Transport Planning and Delivery Manager Lynette Ellis.

“High Street took a battering in the earthquakes but thanks to the efforts of private investors it is starting to re-emerge as a destination. It is important we support their efforts by providing them with an inviting streetscape that meets the needs of all users.’’

Key features of the upgrade work the Council is proposing include:

• Widening the footpaths where possible to cater for the potential increase in foot traffic created by those accessing the planned multi-use arena, the Ara Institute and new businesses in the area and to provide space for outdoor dining areas.
• Simplifying the intersection at Tuam and High streets.
• Introducing a 10kmh speed limit to reinforce the street’s special character as a destination.
• Planting additional trees and a large rain garden.
• Making High Street between Tuam Street and St Asaph Street a one-way street, north to south.
• Extending the tram route along Lichfield Street, Poplar Street and High Street.

“To enhance the streetscape and to provide better facilities for users we are proposing to reduce the amount of  on-street parking in High Street, but there is ample off-street parking available close by,’’ Ms Ellis says.

Most of the parking provided will be P60 parking to cater for shoppers and business clients. Loading zones, mobility parks and motorcycle parks will also be provided.

Under the proposed upgrade, High Street’s distinctive bronze corgis remain part of the streetscape but they will be moved to a spot by the proposed tram shelter so they do not obstruct the footpath. The wind sculpture, Nucleus, will also remain in its current location at the intersection of High and Manchester streets.

“We have discussed the programming of works with local businesses and property owners and will continue to work closely with them during construction to minimise disruption as much as possible,’’ Ms Ellis says.

Before the Council finalises it plans for High Street, it wants to hear what the public thinks about the proposed changes.

Feedback can be given online anytime until Monday 10 June.

If you have any questions about the proposed upgrade, you can attend a drop-in session at:

• Epic, corner of Tuam and Manchester streets, between midday and 2pm on Thursday 23 May.
• Breakfree on Cashel, 165 Cashel Street, between midday and 2pm on Thursday 30 May.

For more details on the High Street plans and to give your feedback, visit Have Your Say.