Plans announced for new hospital parking building

Christchurch Hospital is getting a new parking building.

Greater Christchurch Regeneration Minister Dr Megan Woods has announced that the Crown has brokered a solution to the long-standing parking problems around Christchurch Hospital.

In partnership with Ngāi Tahu Property, it is going to build a new 450-space parking building on land between St Asaph Street and Hagley Avenue.

Ngāi Tahu Property expects to complete the carpark within 18 to 24 months.

Two new floors are also going to be added to the existing staff car park in Antigua Street, adding another 238 parking spaces. Construction of the additional floors is expected to be completed in the first half of 2022.

The new Canterbury District Health Board Park and Ride Facility, which is providing  up to 350 spaces in Deans Avenue , will continue to operate alongside the new parking facilities.

“I’m delighted we’ve reached a resolution to the parking problem. Staff and visitors to the hospital will now be able to benefit from improved parking at the hospital,” Minister Woods says.

“We have reached a long-term solution to a protracted and less than adequate situation. This solution is long overdue. I really feel for those who have had to endure less-than-ideal temporary parking options in the area during often difficult times in their lives. The new facilities will be conveniently close to the hospital for both day patients and visitors.

“I am also pleased about the additional parking space for hospital staff. They do an amazing job and their safety is paramount,'' Minister Woods says. 

The Government has committed $14.25m toward funding the expansion of the existing parking building and as a development contribution toward the construction of the new car parking facility.