Press Release ‐ For Immediate Release Dated – 17thDecember 2009

The Christchurch Mayor – Opens City Mall
Mayor officially opens City Mall

To see all the photos taken today you can view them online at http://www.photos.co.nz/nav_weddings/ourwedding/gallery.php?g=Project%20City%20Mall

The revitalisation of City Mall is complete and the new‐look pedestrian and shopping precinct was officially opened today by Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker.

Work started on Project City Mall in August 2007 with the aim of creating a more attractive, vibrant city centre for the public to enjoy. The two‐year project to bring life back to City Mall has been a success, receiving positive feedback from retailers and the general public.

Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker says the renovation of City Mall is a key component of the Council's strategy to revitalize the Central City.

"The revitalisation of the Central City pedestrian mall was more than just a repaving project. It included an overhaul of the entire space, including the development of recreation and events areas, more plantings, new street furniture, improved lighting, public artworks and the removal of two air bridges.

"Already we have seen a difference in City Mall, with more people coming into town to enjoy the area and businesses feeling the benefits. Our plans to bring more activity to the Central City, boost business and entice more residents will continue this work.

"Project City Mall is a key milestone for our Central City Revitalisation Strategy, which aims to strengthen, grow and enhance the heart of our city to ensure the city as a whole continues to prosper. The strategy reflects this Council's commitment to renew and revive the heart of our community" ‐‐ * Horse‐drawn tram in City Mall The official opening of City Mall will include the operation of a horse‐drawn historic tram along tracks laid in the mall. Christchurch's Central City Business Association will be offering tram rides to the public for a gold coin donation in City Mall for the week following 17 December.

The Central City Business Association has raised enough funds from city businesses and property owners to run the historical double‐decker horse drawn tram along part of the new tram extension in the lead up to Christmas.

The Business Association manager Paul Lonsdale said, “This is a great opportunity to show off the cities newly completed city mall and gives people the opportunity to ride along part of the new tram extension route for the seven days leading up to Christmas.

Without the support of Christchurch Tramways, city property owners and businesses, this promotion would not have been possible.”

ENDS

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