Share your views on Christchurch’s former Godley House site

People are being urged to put forward ideas for the best future use of the reserve that was the former Godley House site in Diamond Harbour.

Built in 1880, the former home of leading Canterbury artist Margaret Stoddart was severely damaged in the 2010-2011 earthquakes. It was demolished in 2012.

The Stoddart family had bought Godley House from a Lyttelton merchant, Harvey Hawkins, in the mid-1890s. It was sold in 1913 and later used as a hotel, restaurant and conference centre.

Future options are being sought for a landmark Diamond Harbour site.

The Christchurch City Council now wants public feedback to help inform a decision on the use of the empty site, including whether any change to the area’s recreation classification is required to better meet community needs.

Consultation is now open, with the local community invited to attend a drop-in session on Saturday, 20 July at the Diamond Harbour Community Centre from 1pm to 3pm.

Council Parks Planning and Asset Management Manager Kelly Hansen says the Council wants to know the local community’s views.

“It is a landmark site in Diamond Harbour, and an area with considerable historical and cultural values in the development of Banks Peninsula,” Ms Hansen says.

“Several major Stoddart works also feature the house and gardens.

“We hope that residents can take the time to drop in to the upcoming public session at the local community centre and share their ideas, or make a submission online.”

Banks Peninsula Community Board Chairperson Pam Richardson has welcomed the move to make the most of the site.

“We hope that everyone makes their voices – and opinions – heard,” Mrs Richardson says.

“It’s important that the local community plays a strong role in the final recommendation.”

Consultation closes on Monday, 5 August, with a report going to the Banks Peninsula Community Board on Monday, 2 September.