New initiatives have been introduced at Christchurch City Council to help with the processing of building and resource consents.

In a world first, a remote-operated digger is working inside Christ Church Cathedral to clear out debris, masonry and guano, a significant biohazard, and retrieve heritage fabric.

People wanting to give their views on a series of Draft Plan Changes aimed at preparing Christchurch for future growth only have a few days left to make submissions.

The twisted and distorted bridge that became a symbol for the power of the Canterbury earthquakes has a new incarnation.

Some historically-important residential areas and more historic places could receive additional protection from the Christchurch District Plan if a proposed plan change gets approved.

Residential areas of Christchurch with special character value are being protected from new housing intensification rules.

Speed limits in Opawa, Beckenham and Papanui could be lowered as part of the Christchurch City Council’s Slow Speeds Neighbourhoods programme.

More intense housing development will be allowed in most residential parts of Christchurch under the Draft Housing and Business Choice Plan Change, now out for consultation.